Keir Starmer Confirms Leadership Amid Sue Gray Pay Controversy
Prime Minister Keir Starmer has confirmed his leadership amid internal government conflicts over staff pay, highlighted by Sue Gray's salary raise to one hundred seventy thousand pounds. Starmer emphasized his focus on delivering change despite criticisms and also defended his acceptance of corporate hospitality from Arsenal. The controversy has drawn varied reactions, including defenses of Gray and critiques of the pay structure in the civil service.
Prime Minister Keir Starmer has affirmed his control following a BBC report revealing discord within the government regarding staff pay.
Sue Gray, Starmer's chief of staff, received a raise putting her salary at one hundred seventy thousand pounds, higher than his.
Despite criticism, Starmer emphasized his mandate to deliver change, defending Gray's salary and his own use of corporate hospitality from Arsenal football club.
Business Secretary Jonathan Reynolds stated ministers have no input on adviser pay, labeling the controversy as a civil service issue.
The story also highlights criticism from the Conservative Party and some colleagues over Gray's pay rise.
Former communications director Guto Harri argued it’s improper for staff to earn more than the PM, while Baroness Harman defended Gray against what she called a personal campaign.