Overview
- The prime minister told ministers his team is "strong and united" after refusing to resign, even as Scottish Labour leader Anas Sarwar publicly urged him to step down.
- Two senior aides quit over the Mandelson appointment: chief of staff Morgan McSweeney on Sunday and communications director Tim Allan on Monday.
- Metropolitan Police are investigating Peter Mandelson for alleged misconduct in public office and have searched properties linked to him; he has not been arrested.
- Downing Street has committed to releasing tens of thousands of emails, messages and documents related to Mandelson’s vetting and appointment.
- With a by‑election later this month and local and Scottish elections in May, Starmer’s authority faces further tests as the scandal continues to dominate UK politics.