Sue Gray resigns as Starmer's chief of staff for new PM role

In the United Kingdom, Sue Gray has resigned from her position as chief of staff to Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer after just one month in the role. Her departure comes amid controversies regarding her salary, which was reportedly higher than that of Starmer, and her connections to donations from Labour peer Lord Waheed Alli. Gray, who previously served as Starmer's chief of staff during his time in opposition, expressed that her decision to step down was influenced by the intense scrutiny surrounding her position, which she felt could distract from the government's essential work. She will transition to a new role as the PM's envoy for nations and regions, a position that Starmer has welcomed, emphasizing her importance in strengthening relations with various regions. Morgan McSweeney has been appointed as her successor, having previously served as chief adviser to the Prime Minister. Gray's resignation highlights the challenges faced by the Labour government as it navigates public perception and internal dynamics while striving to implement its agenda.