Wales' First Minister Baroness Eluned Morgan has backed Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer amid speculation about his leadership, but voiced serious concerns about the planned appointment of Lord Peter Mandelson as British ambassador to Washington over his links to Jeffrey Epstein.
Morgan's support contrasts sharply with Scottish Labour leader Anas Sarwar, who called for Starmer's resignation on Monday. The split within Labour's devolved leadership comes as both Wales and Scotland face crucial elections in May.
In a statement, Morgan defended Starmer's position while directly addressing the Mandelson controversy. «I support the Prime Minister in the job he was elected to do,» she said. «After years of revolving-door leadership under the Conservatives, the country needs stability in an age of instability, and that matters for Wales.»
Concerns over Mandelson appointment
The Welsh First Minister expressed serious reservations about Mandelson's suitability for public office. «I had concerns that Peter Mandelson was incompatible with public office because of the company he kept,» she stated. «What has since come to light has only reinforced those concerns.»
She described the issues as deeply troubling, particularly criticizing failures to listen to women and girls. «That failure must be acknowledged and confronted honestly,» Morgan added. «Leadership means upholding standards and acting when they fall short.»
Focus on Welsh priorities
Morgan set clear expectations for Starmer's government, stating she judges any Prime Minister by «whether they deliver for Wales.» She emphasized Wales needs action on the cost of living, investment in the economy and infrastructure, and continued commitment to stronger devolution.
Labour has governed Wales for more than 25 years since the Senedd was established in 1999. Opinion polls suggest the May Senedd elections could challenge this long-standing dominance.
Note: This article was created with Artificial Intelligence (AI).
