Mystery over Sue Gray deepens as No10 admits PM's sacked chief of staff is still 'on a short break' before taking up a new role... but WON'T say if she's still earning £170k salary

In the United Kingdom, uncertainty surrounds the future of Sue Gray, who recently departed from her role as Chief of Staff to Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer. Announced on October 6, her exit followed a period marked by intense internal discord and media scrutiny. Initially expected to transition to a new role as an envoy for the nations and regions, her commencement is delayed as she remains on an unspecified 'short break'. Despite expectations of a smooth transition, Gray's absence from a key event on October 11 has fueled speculation regarding her status. Downing Street has been reticent to provide clarity on the situation, neglecting to confirm whether Gray is on paid or unpaid leave. Her previous salary as Chief of Staff was reported to be around £170,000, notably higher than that of the Prime Minister. There were indications that Gray may have sought a more lucrative arrangement in her new role or even a peerage, reflecting the competitive dynamics within Starmer’s leadership team. In what appears to be a strategic reshuffle, Morgan McSweeney has succeeded Gray as Chief of Staff, indicating a clear power play within the ranks of Starmer's advisory body. The ongoing situation illustrates the complexities surrounding leadership transitions in political environments, particularly when compounded by public and media scrutiny. As the government navigates this transition, questions about internal cohesion within Starmer's team persist, given the reported tensions and the abrupt nature of Gray’s departure.