Sue Gray describes working environment in Keir Starmer's No 10 as unbearable

Sue Gray, the former chief of staff to Keir Starmer, has described her experience working in Number 10 as unbearable. In an interview with the Political Currency podcast, Gray revealed that she feared colleagues were secretly recording her conversations to leak them to the media. She expressed disappointment that Starmer did not do more to address her concerns regarding staff briefing journalists against her.

Gray discussed specific instances of internal tension, including reports that she had attempted to move aide Morgan McSweeney to a different location. She clarified that her intention was simply to find a larger room for the staff, rather than to sideline him. Gray noted that the atmosphere was particularly difficult for her, stating that she began arriving at the office early and leaving late to avoid certain situations.

Beyond the working culture, Gray suggested that Starmer lacked vision as he entered office, contrasting him with his successor, Andy Burnham, whom she praised for having a clear view of his goals. Gray's tenure as chief of staff lasted four months before she resigned in 2024, citing concerns that she had become a distraction to the government. Following her departure, she was appointed as a peer.

Both reports highlight a broader pattern of instability within Starmer's senior team. This includes accusations of a boys club culture and a high turnover of staff. While Starmer allies previously claimed Gray failed to prepare the government for its first 100 days, Gray defended her work, citing efforts to restore relationships with the US, the European Commission, and Ireland.