Sue Gray, Chief of Staff to British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, has resigned from her position, citing concerns that media scrutiny surrounding her role could distract from the government’s focus on change, The Associated Press reports.
The resignation follows recent reports about tensions between Gray and Starmer’s chief advisor, Morgan McSweeney, and also revealing that Gray earned a higher salary than the Prime Minister himself.
The BBC reported Gray’s annual salary to be 170,000 pounds ($223,000), around 3,000 pounds more than Starmer’s income. This, coupled with negative press surrounding Starmer and his wife accepting gifts, has put the Prime Minister under increasing pressure. He has vehemently denied any impropriety.
Gray, a former senior civil servant renowned for her investigations into the “Partygate” scandal, which ultimately led to Boris Johnson’s resignation, stated that her primary focus has always been “public service.” However, she believes the ongoing commentary surrounding her position could impede the government’s work.
In a move to replace Gray, Morgan McSweeney will assume the position of Chief of Staff at Downing Street. Gray has accepted a new role as Starmer’s envoy for the regions and nations.
Further changes to the Downing Street operation have also been announced, including the establishment of a new strategic communications team.
Starmer, who became Britain’s first Labour Prime Minister in 14 years after a landslide victory in July, has faced challenges in his early tenure.
