Starmer is losing senior figures at the rate of one a week

---

The autumn season has brought a wave of departures from the government, with senior figures stepping down at a rate of one per week. The recent resignations and sackings have followed a similar pattern of revelations gradually coming to light, the prime minister voicing support before ultimately parting ways with the individuals involved. Angela Rayner’s resignation as deputy prime minister was swiftly followed by Lord Mandelson’s dismissal as the UK’s Ambassador to the United States.

Leading up to Lord Mandelson’s sacking, even staunch supporters of the prime minister within the government were expressing discomfort. Home office minister Mike Tapp admitted feeling uneasy about the situation, while Health Secretary Wes Streeting voiced his disgust. The depth of the relationship between Mandelson and Epstein, along with Mandelson’s belief in the wrongful nature of Epstein’s conviction, were cited as factors in the decision to remove him from his position.

This is not the first time Lord Mandelson has faced controversy in his political career, with previous high-profile exits due to financial and passport-related scandals. The fallout from Mandelson’s departure has raised questions for Sir Keir Starmer and the Foreign Office, who now must search for a new ambassador. Speculation around potential candidates includes Dame Karen Pierce, Richard Moore, and Lord Sedwill, with the need to make a swift appointment especially pressing given the upcoming State visit by President Trump.

Reflecting on the recent events, there is speculation about alternative scenarios, such as the hypothetical appointment of Nigel Farage as the UK’s Ambassador in Washington. Imagining such a scenario highlights the potential for different political outcomes and dynamics within the government. As the search for a new ambassador continues, the impact of recent developments on the political landscape remains uncertain

Read the full article from The BBC here: Read More

---