12/02/2026
Labour Leadership Crisis Deepens in 2026
The Labour Party is facing a massive wave of exits and scandals just weeks into the new year. From high-profile resignations in No. 10 to a major by-election trigger, here is the full list of who’s out and why:
❌ THE RESIGNATIONS & EXITS
• Andrew Gwynne (MP for Gorton and Denton): Resigned on Jan 22 citing "significant ill health." This has triggered a massive by-election in Greater Manchester. Gwynne had been sitting as an Independent after losing the Labour whip last year.
• Peter Mandelson: The "Prince of Darkness" has officially quit the House of Lords (Feb 3) and lost his role as US Ambassador. This follows explosive new revelations regarding his ties to Jeffrey Epstein and alleged leaks of sensitive info.
• Morgan McSweeney (Chief of Staff): The man credited with Labour’s 2024 victory quit on Feb 8. He took "full responsibility" for the disastrous decision to appoint Mandelson, leaving PM Keir Starmer increasingly isolated.
• Tim Allan (Director of Communications): Quit just 24 hours after McSweeney (Feb 9). After only 5 months in the job, he says a "new No. 10 team" is needed.
⚠️ UNDER THE MICROSCOPE
• Peter Prinsley MP: Currently under formal investigation by the Parliamentary Commissioner for Standards (as of Jan 12) regarding interests and conduct.
📉 THE "INDEPENDENT" BLOC
Don't forget, a growing group of former Labour heavyweights like John McDonnell, Zarah Sultana, and Richard Burgon are still sitting on the outside as Independents after losing the whip.
The big question now: With a by-election looming in Gorton and Denton, can the government steady the ship, or is the "Starmer Project" in real trouble?
👇 What do you think? Is this a necessary "reset" or a sign of a government in freefall? Let’s discuss in the comments.