UK cabinet secretary resigns as Epstein scandal engulfs Starmer government

Wormald, who had held the position since December 2024, announced his departure after reaching an agreement with Starmer. "It has been an honor and a privilege to serve as a civil servant for the past 35 years," he stated. "Leading the public service as Cabinet Secretary was a particular honor." The Prime Minister thanked Wormald for his support and wished him well for the future.

Second senior official to quit in Epstein fallout

The Cabinet Secretary's resignation follows that of Morgan McSweeney, Starmer's chief of staff, who stepped down days earlier over his role in pushing for Mandelson's ambassadorial appointment despite knowledge of his Epstein connections. McSweeney acknowledged recommending the appointment and took "full responsibility," though he did not personally conduct the security clearance process. The consecutive departures signal deep instability at the heart of the British government.

Mandelson-Epstein ties deepen political crisis

Freshly unsealed documents have exposed the extent of Mandelson's relationship with Epstein, raising serious questions about national security and political judgment. While serving as Business Secretary in Gordon Brown's government in 2009, Mandelson allegedly suggested to Epstein that a JP Morgan executive should "lightly threaten" the UK Treasury chief over tax plans. He also reportedly leaked details of a €500 billion EU bailout package to Epstein before its public announcement. Financial records show Epstein sent Mandelson three separate $25,000 payments in 2003 and 2004, while Epstein also transferred £10,000 to Mandelson's partner, Reinaldo Avila da Silva.

Leadership vacuum and questions for Starmer

With both the Prime Minister's chief of staff and the nation's top civil servant gone, Starmer faces mounting pressure over his judgment and handling of the affair. The Cabinet Secretary's duties will be temporarily divided among three senior permanent secretaries until a successor is appointed. For international observers including Türkiye, the escalating scandal raises concerns about the stability of a key NATO partner and the integrity of its diplomatic appointments process.