Downing Street rejects calls for PM's resignation amid Epstein-linked controversy

Downing Street has responded firmly to Scottish Labour leader Anas Sarwar’s call for UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer to resign, Sky News reports.

A spokesperson for Number 10 stated: “Keir Starmer is one of only four Labour leaders ever to have won a general election. He has a clear five-year mandate from the British people to deliver change, and that is what he will do.”

The statement comes as cabinet ministers publicly express support for the prime minister on social media, amid growing speculation over his political future.

As Caliber.Az recalls, Starmer could potentially step down within a week following the appointment of Peter Mandelson as the UK’s ambassador to the United States. The decision has sparked controversy due to Mandelson’s ties to the late American financier Jeffrey Epstein, according to sources within the ruling Labour Party.

Some Labour MPs have reportedly been surprised that Starmer remains in office after approving Mandelson’s controversial appointment. Reports indicate that ministers may pressure the prime minister to resign or threaten to resign themselves. One ministerial aide described Starmer’s prospects of lasting the week as “50-50.”

The departure of Chief of Staff Morgan McSweeney has left Starmer without a key ally amid the ongoing Epstein-related scandal. According to a source, the prime minister has spent several days questioning whether he can continue effectively without McSweeney. Labour Party members reportedly view Starmer’s position as increasingly vulnerable, warning that only by becoming a “lame duck” could he hope to navigate the May local elections.

By Vafa Guliyeva