It’s trouble in paradise for Labour as Starmer’s Chief of Staff Sue Gray continues to cause conflict within Downing Street. Guido hears SpAds still haven’t been able to sign their official contracts, causing further frustration and fury among aides. As one Whitehall insider remarked, “they better get on with it”…
SpAds have reportedly decided to unionise following complaints of pay cuts and work overload as many departments seem to have fewer aides than they did under the Tories. The recent public sector pay raises may have given some inspiration…
While Number 10 denies that Gray is involved in setting SpAd terms and pay, it’s no secret that frustrations with their roles are directed at her. SpAds have labelled Gray a “control freak,” blaming her for the delays in formal contract approvals. Still, it seems they are making the most of the hold up by upping negotiations. Until then, Labour aides will have to make do with working under strict probationary terms instead…
Former leader of the SNP in Westminster Ian Blackford told Times Radio why he believes Nicola Sturgeon’s claim that she spent no time in the kitchen and therefore didn’t see any of her husband’s purchases:
“She doesn’t have a passion for cooking.”