Starmer’s enforcer Sue Gray faces scrutiny over salary decision

Sue Gray, the chief of staff to the prime minister, is currently facing criticism from political advisers within her team due to her salary being higher than that of Keir Starmer. This situation has led to feelings of resentment and discontent among her colleagues, raising questions about her leadership and decision-making. Although it has been claimed that she did not influence her pay, her acceptance of a salary exceeding that of the prime minister has been viewed unfavorably by some insiders. The discontent is compounded by the perception that Gray is not effectively managing the pay structure for junior special advisers, despite her involvement in the committee that sets their salaries. This has led to a lack of cohesion within the team, which could hinder the government's ability to deliver on its promises. The internal strife is particularly concerning given the early stage of Starmer's administration, where unity and discipline are crucial for success. Moreover, the prime minister's own controversies, including accepting significant donations for personal items, have further complicated the public's perception of the government. The combination of Gray's salary issues and Starmer's public relations missteps has created a challenging environment for the administration. Despite the growing criticism, Starmer has shown support for Gray by including her in key meetings and appointments, indicating his reliance on her expertise. However, the increasing number of complaints about her leadership raises concerns about the effectiveness of the administration moving forward.