Sir Keir Starmer apologises over Mandelson-Epstein scandal

Plus: Donald Trump signals approval of Starmer's Chaogos Islands deal

Friday, February 6, 2026 Good morning and welcome to your daily news briefing from The Independent.   Sir Keir Starmer has apologised for appointing Peter Mandelson and "believing his lies", Donald Trump has backed the prime minister's Chagos deal, and thousands of people have been evacuated as Storm Leonardo batters Spain and Portugal. Top stories 1 | I'm sorry for appointing Mandelson and believing his lies, PM says Read more 2 | Trump backs Starmer's Chagos deal despite 'great stupidity' claim Read more 3 | Thousands evacuated as Storm Leonardo batters Spain and Portugal Read more 4 | France thrash Ireland in statement start to Six Nations Read more 5 | Boy, 15, arrested for attempted murder after armed attack on teacher Read more Editors' picks The real reason for the King's silence on whether Andrew testifies Meet Dame Karen Pierce – the midlife woman pushed out for Peter Mandelson Why two single 40-somethings moved in together as 'platonic partners' Your Views Your Views 'Starmer has to go': Readers on Mandelson files and Labour infighting The Labour MPs are on a sinking ship with Starmer as PM, and he has to go. If he's kept in place as PM, then they will lose their parliamentary seats in the next general election, as he is a disaster.   Stacey Benoit Get involved and share your views here. Don't forget to complete your registration You haven't completed your registration with The Independent. It's free, quick, and helps support our journalism while tailoring your experience. Register now to enjoy benefits including access to limited Premium articles, The Independent app, more than 20 newsletters and commenting on independent.co.uk. Complete your registration today to unlock access. WATCH  Illegal migrants board flights as Home Office announce record STAT OF THE DAY £7,000 The amount of money a local councillor claims was spent on a duck road sign - in an area he has never seen any ducks.  Read more QUOTE OF THE DAY "None of us knew the depths and the darkness of that relationship."   Sir Keir Starmer talking about Lord Peter Mandelson's relationship with Jeffrey Epstein as he apologised to victims.    Read more Other stories you might like British socialite 'put together group of girls for Jeffrey Epstein' I'm ready to admit it – Wuthering Heights is an awful, awful book Dozens of children suffer toxin poisoning symptoms following baby formula recall Score a Hoover robot vacuum deal with code "HG2-170". Bookworms, enjoy 50% off Audible for three months. Choosing The Independent as one of your preferred sources ensures that you'll see our coverage more prominently displayed in your searches. That way, you can be sure you're accessing the latest headlines from a trusted source. SOURCE PREFERENCES Join the conversation and follow us Download our apps: Please do not reply directly to this email   You are currently registered to receive The Independent's Evening Headlines newsletter.   To unsubscribe from The Independent's Morning Headlines newsletter, or to manage your email preferences please click here.   This e-mail was sent by Independent Digital News and Media Ltd, 14-18 Finsbury Square, London EC2A 1AH. Registered in England and Wales with company number 07320345 Read our privacy policy and cookie policy