Politis

UK: Pound Plummets as Starmer Battles to Stay in Power

Published February 9, 2026, 14:25
UK: Pound Plummets as Starmer Battles to Stay in Power

Political instability in the UK is causing market turmoil, with the pound falling and the cost of borrowing for the British government increasing. The resignation of two senior Labour Party officials, Chief of Staff Morgan McSweeney and Communications Director Tim Allan, has heightened concerns about internal stability and the leadership of Keir Starmer. The yields on British bonds have risen, approaching year-highs, while the pound has fallen against the euro. Capital Economics analysts warn that a collapse of the Starmer government could lead to a market reaction similar to that triggered by the ‘mini-budget’ of former Prime Minister Liz Truss. Fears of a shift toward a looser fiscal policy are adding to market pressures. If the Labour Party's leadership passes to more left-wing forces, investors expect higher spending and increased borrowing. Rabobank points to the existence of 'political nerves' affecting the British currency. The crisis was sparked by revelations about the relationship between Peter Mandelsohn, the US ambassador appointed by Starmer, and Jeffrey Epstein. Although factors such as expectations of increased spending in Japan are influencing the rise in yields, markets remain focused on developments in London, in light of upcoming local elections and the by-election in Manchester.