Sue Gray has resigned from her position as Chief of Staff to Prime Minister, Keir Starmer.

In her resignation statement, Ms Gray described it as an honour to contribute to the formation of a Labour government, both in opposition and at No 10.

“However, in recent weeks, it has become evident that the intense commentary surrounding my role risked detracting from the government’s essential work of reform,” she said. “For that reason, I have chosen to step aside, and I look forward to continuing my support for the Prime Minister in my new capacity.”

Ms Gray’s resignation follows controversy regarding her salary, which was revealed by the BBC to exceed that of Mr Keir, alongside scrutiny over donations from Lord Waheed Alli.

A spokesperson for Downing Street confirmed that Ms Gray will transition to a new role as the Prime Minister’s envoy for nations and regions.

Labour announced that Ms Gray will be succeeded by Morgan McSweeney, formerly the chief adviser to the prime minister and the architect of Labour’s election campaign.

Mr Starmer expressed his gratitude for Ms Gray’s contributions and stated he was “delighted” she would remain in his orbit in her new role. He added that the reshuffle reflected his “determination to deliver.”