Sue Gray to miss inaugural council meeting in October
- Sue Gray will not attend the inaugural council meeting in Scotland due to taking a break between roles.
- The council aims to enhance collaboration among leaders from Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland, and regional mayors in England to boost economic growth.
- Her absence allows the government to concentrate on its essential work without the distraction of speculation about her position.
In the United Kingdom, Sue Gray will not participate in the inaugural meeting of the Prime Minister's council of nations and regions, scheduled for Friday in Scotland. This decision follows her recent appointment as the Prime Minister's envoy for nations and regions after a significant internal power struggle within the government. Gray's absence is attributed to her taking a break between roles, as confirmed by a Downing Street source. The council, convened by Keir Starmer, aims to bring together leaders from Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland, and regional mayors in England to discuss strategies for boosting economic growth and investment across the UK. This initiative aligns with Labour's manifesto promise to restructure government and enhance collaboration among different regions. Starmer is expected to hold bilateral meetings with first ministers and deputy first ministers from the devolved governments, emphasizing the importance of partnership in achieving meaningful change. The meeting will also address the upcoming global investment summit, which is set to take place shortly after the council meeting. Gray's previous role as the Prime Minister's chief of staff had become a source of distraction due to intense speculation surrounding her position. By stepping aside, she aims to allow the government to focus on its essential work of change without the burden of ongoing commentary about her role.