UK PM Starmer Faces Calls to Resign Over Epstein Scandal

Revelations about ambassador's ties to convicted sex offender spark crisis for Labour government

Published on Feb. 11, 2026

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UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer is facing mounting pressure to resign over his handling of the scandal surrounding Peter Mandelson's connections to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. The controversy erupted after Starmer appointed Mandelson as the UK's ambassador to the US, despite being aware of Mandelson's prior relationship with Epstein. Newly released documents have revealed more messages between the two, even after Epstein's 2008 conviction.

Why it matters

The Epstein scandal has already brought down a British royal - Prince Andrew - and now threatens to topple a Prime Minister. The crisis has sparked internal fractures within Starmer's Labour Party, with the opposition Conservative Party and Scottish Labour leader calling for his resignation. The situation is further complicated by broader concerns about the government's stability and its ability to navigate complex international challenges.

The details

Starmer has apologized to Epstein's victims, admitting he believed Mandelson's 'lies' about the extent of their association. However, this has done little to quell the growing outrage, as allegations have emerged that Mandelson may have leaked sensitive government information to Epstein and accepted money from him. UK police have launched a criminal investigation into these claims, though Mandelson denies any wrongdoing.

  • In 2008, Epstein was convicted of soliciting prostitution.
  • In 2026, Starmer appointed Mandelson as the UK's ambassador to the US.

The players

Keir Starmer

The current Prime Minister of the United Kingdom and leader of the Labour Party.

Peter Mandelson

The UK's ambassador to the United States, who has been accused of having connections to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.

Kemi Badenoch

The leader of the Conservative Party, which has seized upon the scandal and is calling for Starmer's resignation and new elections.

Anas Sarwar

The leader of the Scottish Labour Party, who has publicly called for Starmer's resignation.

Jeffrey Epstein

The convicted sex offender whose connections to Mandelson have sparked the crisis for Starmer's government.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, Grocery employee (Instagram)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.