Novara Live Are Keir Starmer’s Days As Prime Minister Numbered?
Feb 5, 2026
A deep political scandal unpacks whether the prime minister can survive amid revelations about Peter Mandelson and links to Epstein. The role and influence of Morgan McSweeney and revolving doors between government, tech firms and billionaires are examined. Connections between Palantir, defence contracts and media ownership are explored. The show questions democratic accountability and elite power networks.
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Starmer's Credibility Eroded By Mandelson Affair
- Keir Starmer admitted knowing Mandelson had ties to Jeffrey Epstein and later called for release of vetting documents while citing police advice not to prejudice investigations.
- Hosts argue Starmer's claim of ignorance fails given earlier public reporting and undermines his judgment and credibility.
McSweeney As The Power Broker Behind Starmer
- Morgan McSweeney is presented as the power behind Starmer, with deep, long-term ties to Peter Mandelson dating back to Labour's Excalibur era.
- The hosts suggest sacking McSweeney might delay collapse, but Starmer would be a weakened figure without him.
The Role Of Gatekeepers In Labour's Centrist Shift
- Dalia Gebrial argues McSweeney and Mandelson serve to neutralise the left inside Labour, preserving elite interests over grassroots power.
- She warns their structural role persists even if individuals fall, making left rebuild slow and difficult.
