The resignation of Tim Allan, Prime Minister Keir Starmer's Director of Communications, has marked another significant change within Downing Street. Allan's departure, occurring less than 24 hours after that of Morgan McSweeney, Starmer's Chief of Staff, has intensified scrutiny on the Prime Minister's leadership. These exits come as the government grapples with the fallout from the controversial appointment of Lord Peter Mandelson as US ambassador, a decision shadowed by Mandelson's known associations with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.
Background to the Resignations
The period leading up to Allan's departure has been characterized by considerable political tension. The central point of contention has been the Prime Minister's endorsement of Lord Mandelson for the US ambassador role.
Mandelson's Appointment: The selection of Lord Mandelson as ambassador to the United States has drawn sharp criticism. This has been primarily due to Lord Mandelson's documented links with Jeffrey Epstein.
Allegations of Deception: Reports suggest that questions have been raised about the extent of Starmer's knowledge regarding these links. Some sources indicate that claims about his awareness of Mandelson's associations have been challenged, leading to accusations of dishonesty or being misled.
McSweeney's Exit: The resignation of Morgan McSweeney, the Prime Minister's Chief of Staff, preceded Allan's. His departure is linked to his role in the process that led to Lord Mandelson's appointment. McSweeney's exit has been described as his own decision.
Allan's Brief Tenure: Tim Allan was appointed Director of Communications in September 2025, serving in the role for approximately five months. His previous experience includes advising Tony Blair and founding the public affairs consultancy Portland. Some observers noted that Portland had previously undertaken work to improve the Kremlin's image, a point of contention for some within Number 10.
Allan's Statement and Mandate
Tim Allan has formally stated his decision to step down, citing the need for a new team to be established.
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"I have decided to stand down to allow a new No 10 team to be built. I wish the PM and his team every success."
Allan's appointment was intended to bolster Downing Street's communication strategy. His resignation now opens a vacancy in this crucial position during a period of significant public and parliamentary examination.
Starmer's Response and Party Standing
Despite the departures, Prime Minister Starmer's office has conveyed a message of confidence and determination. A spokesperson for the Prime Minister indicated that Starmer was in an "upbeat" and "confident" mood following an address to staff.
Cabinet Support: The spokesperson asserted that Starmer possesses the "unanimous support" of his Cabinet and that he is "determined to tackle the job in hand" and "getting on with the job of delivering change across the country."
Denial of Leadership Review: Downing Street has also denied reports that Starmer had been considering his position over the weekend, stressing his commitment to his current responsibilities.
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However, the sequential resignations of two senior aides are expected to fuel further calls for Starmer's resignation from within his own parliamentary party. The circumstances surrounding the Mandelson appointment and the subsequent staff turnover have created a complex and challenging environment for the Prime Minister.
Evidence and Key Events
The sequence of events leading to these resignations is supported by multiple sources:
| Event | Timing | Primary Actor(s) | Reported Cause/Context |
|---|---|---|---|
| Morgan McSweeney steps down as Chief of Staff | Approximately 24 hours before Allan's resignation | Morgan McSweeney | Role in the appointment of Lord Mandelson as US ambassador. |
| Tim Allan resigns as Director of Communications | Monday, following McSweeney's resignation | Tim Allan, Keir Starmer | To allow for a "new No 10 team" amidst fallout from Mandelson appointment. |
| Lord Peter Mandelson appointment as US ambassador | Precedes staff resignations | Lord Mandelson, Keir Starmer | Controversy due to known links with Jeffrey Epstein; questions about knowledge and disclosure. |
| Prime Minister Starmer addresses staff | Morning of Allan's resignation | Keir Starmer | Conveying message of confidence and determination; denying consideration of resignation. |
| Internal resistance to Allan's appointment | Post-appointment | Unnamed Number 10 staff | Concerns over Allan's former work with his firm, Portland, on Kremlin image. |
| Labour MPs' pressure for Starmer to resign | Ongoing | Labour MPs | Resulting from the handling of the Mandelson controversy and senior staff exits. |
Analysis of Circumstantial Links
The resignations of Allan and McSweeney within such a short timeframe, coupled with the ongoing controversy surrounding Lord Mandelson, suggests a direct correlation.
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Was McSweeney's resignation a precursor, creating a situation where Allan felt compelled to follow suit to allow for a broader reshuffling of the Downing Street team?
Did the external pressure and internal scrutiny following McSweeney's departure create an untenable environment for Allan, prompting his decision to step down to facilitate a fresh start for the Prime Minister's communications operation?
Is the assertion that Starmer has "unanimous Cabinet backing" a reflection of genuine unity, or a strategic statement to project stability amidst a period of significant personnel change and public examination?
Expert Commentary
Political analysts have noted the significance of these departures for Prime Minister Starmer's administration.
"The loss of a Chief of Staff and a Director of Communications within a single day is a considerable blow to any Prime Minister. It signals that the administration is under severe pressure," stated a senior political commentator.
Another analyst observed, "The Mandelson appointment has clearly triggered a crisis point. The subsequent staff changes indicate that the Prime Minister's office is attempting to contain the damage, but the fundamental issue of the ambassadorial selection and the associated revelations remains unresolved."
Conclusion and Next Steps
The resignations of Tim Allan and Morgan McSweeney represent a significant upheaval within Prime Minister Keir Starmer's senior team. The immediate context is the controversy surrounding the appointment of Lord Peter Mandelson, complicated by his past associations. While Starmer's office projects an image of resolute leadership and continued Cabinet support, the rapid departure of two key figures inevitably raises questions about the stability and direction of his government.
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Impact on Communications: The absence of a confirmed Director of Communications will present immediate challenges for Starmer's ability to manage public perception and navigate future political challenges.
Parliamentary Scrutiny: The events are likely to intensify scrutiny from opposition parties and within Starmer's own parliamentary ranks.
Future Appointments: The selection of replacements for both McSweeney and Allan will be closely watched as an indicator of Starmer's strategy moving forward.
Sources Used
BBC News: Tim Allan quits: Director of communications to leave role after just five months. Published 22 hours ago. https://www.bbc.com/news/live/c74wd01egvyt
Sky News: Starmer's comms director steps down day after his chief of staff quits. Published 12 hours ago. https://news.sky.com/story/starmers-comms-director-steps-down-day-after-his-chief-of-staff-quits-13505233
The Straits Times: UK PM Starmer's communications director quits. Published 12 hours ago. https://www.straitstimes.com/world/europe/uk-pm-starmers-communications-director-quits
Politico EU: Keir Starmer’s comms chief Tim Allan quits Downing Street. Published 1 hour ago. https://www.politico.eu/article/keir-starmer-comms-chief-tim-allan-quits-downing-street/
Evening Standard: Keir Starmer’s communications chief quits to make way for ‘new No 10 team’. Published 1 hour ago. https://www.standard.co.uk/news/politics/tim-allan-keir-starmer-prime-minister-peter-mandelson-b1270219.html
The Guardian: Keir Starmer’s director of communications Tim Allan steps down. Published 1 hour ago. https://www.theguardian.com/politics/2026/feb/09/keir-starmer-director-of-communications-tim-allan-step-down
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