Read Morgan McSweeney’s statement in fullpublished at 14:24 GMT
We can now bring you Morgan McSweeney’s statement announcing his resignation.
“After careful reflection, I have decided to resign from the
government.
“The decision to appoint Peter Mandelson was wrong. He has
damaged our party, our country and trust in politics itself.
“When asked, I advised the Prime Minister to make that
appointment and I take full responsibility for that advice. In public life
responsibility must be owned when it matters most, not just when it is most
convenient. In the circumstances, the only honourable course is to step aside.
“This has not been an easy decision. Much has been written
and said about me over the years but my motivations have always been simple: I
have worked every day to elect and support a government that puts the lives of
ordinary people first and leads us to a better future for our great country.
Only a Labour government will do that. I leave with pride in all we have
achieved mixed with regret at the circumstances of my departure. But I have
always believed there are moments when you must accept your responsibility and
step aside for the bigger cause.
“As I leave I have two further reflections:
“Firstly, and most importantly, we must remember the women
and girls whose lives were ruined by Jeffrey Epstein and whose voices went
unheard for far too long.
“Secondly, while I did not oversee the due diligence and
vetting process, I believe that process must now be fundamentally overhauled.
This cannot simply be a gesture but a safeguard for the future.
“I remain fully supportive of the Prime Minister. He is
working every day to rebuild trust, restore standards and serve the country. I
will continue to back that mission in whatever way I can. It has been the
honour of my life to serve.”
