Labour Party leader Keir Starmer faced a setback when one of his key aides resigned following the leak of explicit messages making derogatory remarks about veteran MP Diane Abbott. Paul Ovenden, Starmer’s strategy director, stepped down after it was revealed that he had shared inappropriate comments with a female colleague while working in the Labour press team in 2017.
The departure of Ovenden, a close adviser to Starmer, is a significant blow as the Prime Minister strives to regain momentum after the dismissal of Peter Mandelson as US ambassador due to his association with Jeffrey Epstein.
The leaked messages, uncovered by ITV News, showed Ovenden engaging in a conversation about a controversial game and making disrespectful references to Abbott. The Prime Minister’s office condemned the messages as unacceptable, highlighting Abbott’s pioneering role as the first black woman elected to Parliament and denouncing such behavior in politics.
Ovenden’s exit has left his peers shocked, given his instrumental role in Labour’s electoral success, having served as communications director before his stint with No. 10. Colleagues praised Ovenden’s expertise and influence within the Labour Party and government circles.
In a statement, Ovenden acknowledged the past incident, emphasizing his decision to resign to prevent any distraction from the government’s important work. Meanwhile, Abbott, the longest-serving female MP in Parliament, has endured significant discrimination throughout her career, as evidenced by a study revealing the extent of abuse directed at her on social media during the 2017 election campaign.
The Prime Minister faced further scrutiny over his judgment following the Mandelson-Epstein controversy, expressing regret over the situation and defending his handling of the matter. Amid calls for accountability, Energy Secretary Ed Miliband urged the government to stay focused amidst the recent upheavals. The Conservatives pushed for an emergency debate in Parliament to pressure the PM to disclose documents related to Mandelson’s appointment.