The Sunday Times says, external the pay-off to Lord Mandelson after he was removed as ambassador to the US will likely "add to the pressure on Sir Keir Starmer". The Sunday Mirror headlines, external on the "Labour heavyweight" Lord Blunkett's message to the prime minister: "Get your act together". The Sun on Sunday's editorial, external says Sir Keir "can't shift this vetting scandal stench". According to the Sunday Telegraph, external, Sir Keir is said to be "devastated" and considering his future. The mayor of London, Sir Sadiq Khan, tells the Observer, external that it would be a mistake to oust Sir Keir.

Source: The Times February 08, 2026 18:00 UTC