Former top aide of Keir Starmer, Morgan McSweeney, has been advised by ex-Labour Deputy Leader, Tom Watson, to seek legal counsel before appearing before the Commons Foreign Affairs Committee next week. Watson expressed concerns about McSweeney potentially not receiving a fair hearing during the upcoming session.
McSweeney resigned in February, taking full responsibility for advising the Prime Minister to appoint Lord Mandelson as US ambassador, a decision that stirred controversy due to Mandelson’s connections to Jeffrey Epstein. The fallout from this appointment led to turmoil within No10.
Watson criticized Committee Chair Emily Thornberry for what he perceived as monopolizing time during recent hearings, suggesting she was more focused on prosecuting rather than uncovering facts. He urged McSweeney to consider hiring lawyers due to the perceived reputational risks associated with the committee’s approach.
In a separate development, Watson defended Keir Starmer against accusations of dishonesty regarding the appointment, emphasizing the need for better assessment of political risks in decision-making processes.
Encouraging unity within the Labour party, Watson called on MPs to concentrate on campaigning for upcoming elections, advising against internal conflicts and distractions.
A former senior Government official downplayed the significance of the Mandelson scandal as a potential catalyst for a change in leadership, citing ongoing international issues and the need for stability in the face of external challenges.
Thornberry chose not to respond directly to Watson’s remarks, maintaining silence on the matter.
