London, United Kingdom

Sue Gray announced her resignation from her role as Sir Keir Starmer's chief of staff on Sunday, October 6th, explaining that she "risked becoming a distraction."

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Gray, a former civil servant, said that she has accepted a new position as the Prime Minister’s envoy for the regions and nations after serving in Downing Street for three months. Morgan McSweeney will take over her role.

Gray said, “After leading the Labour Party’s preparation for government and kickstarting work on our programme for change, I am looking forward to drawing on my experience to support the Prime Minister and the Cabinet to help deliver the government’s objectives across the nations and regions of the UK.”

She added, “Throughout my career, my first interest has always been public service. However, in recent weeks it has become clear to me that intense commentary around my position risked becoming a distraction to the government’s vital work of change."

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“It is for that reason I have chosen to stand aside, and I look forward to continuing to support the Prime Minister in my new role."

Sir Keir Starmer, in a written statement, thanked Gray, “I want to thank Sue for all the support she has given me, both in opposition and government, and her work to prepare us for government and get us started on our programme of change.”

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“Sue has played a vital role in strengthening our relations with the regions and nations. I am delighted that she will continue to support that work,” he added.

Gray’s resignation comes after months of negative briefings while she served as chief of staff, with some within Labour criticising the level of influence she had in Downing Street. Additionally, details of her salary, which was £3,000 more than Sir Keir's, were leaked to the media.

(With inputs from agencies)