Will Mandelson be Starmer's downfall?

Will Mandelson be Starmer's downfall?

Author: The New Statesman February 4, 2026 Duration: 25:21

Keir Starmer knew about Peter Mandelson's friendship with the paedophile Jeffrey Epstein – but still appointed him US ambassador.


After a bruising Prime Minister's Questions for Keir Starmer, Ailbhe Rea joins Anoosh Chakelian to discuss whether the Mandelson affair could be the downfall of the Prime Minister – or his closest aide, Morgan McSweeney, who championed Mandelson.


Ailbhe shares her exclusive reporting on the process which led to Mandelson's appointment, and the impact this scandal will have on the Labour Party and the Prime Minister.


READ

The Mandelson Affair: inside the scandal of a century

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Each weekday, Daily Politics from the New Statesman cuts through the noise of the 24-hour news cycle to offer something more substantial. Hosted by Anoosh Chakelian and Oli Dugmore, along with the wider New Statesman team, this isn't just a recap of headlines. Instead, it provides sharp reporting and clear analysis from the heart of Westminster, paired with thoughtful conversations that look beyond the capital to the cultural and societal forces shaping the political landscape. You'll hear from the magazine's own journalists and a range of expert guests who help explain not just what is happening, but why it matters. The perspective is inherently progressive, rooted in the New Statesman's long tradition as a leading voice in British political commentary. Tuning into this podcast means getting a deeper, more considered understanding of the day's events, delivered with clarity and insight. It’s designed for anyone who feels that politics is too important to be left to soundbites, offering a reliable and engaging daily digest that makes complex issues accessible without oversimplifying them.
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