Former Labour MP Bill Rammell has described Sir Keir Starmer as “utterly ruthless” following the resignation of Sue Gray as his chief of staff.
Speaking to GB News, Rammell said: “I’ve worked with Sue Gray when I was a Government minister, and I’ve got a lot of time and respect for her. This couldn’t be allowed to go on. She has become the story.”
Rammell praised Starmer’s decisiveness but criticised the time taken to reach this decision.
He added: “I think what Keir has demonstrated yet again, is he’s utterly ruthless when he needs to be in making key decisions. The criticism I would make is it’s gone on for too long.”
Keir Starmer has been branded “utterly ruthless”
PA
The comments come as Starmer reshuffles his No10 team amid controversy surrounding Gray’s position and salary.
Sue Gray announced her resignation on Sunday, citing concerns that her position had become a distraction to the Government’s work.
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In a statement, she said: “It has become clear to me that intense commentary around my position risked becoming a distraction to the Government’s vital work of change.”
Gray will now take on a new role as the Prime Minister’s envoy for the regions and nations.
This position is understood to be part-time, with questions remaining over whether it will be salaried.
The move follows weeks of public scrutiny, including the leaking of Gray’s £170,000 salary, which exceeded that of the Prime Minister by £3,000.
Bill Rammell
The reshuffle comes less than 100 days into Labour’s tenure, following reports of tensions within No10.
Rammell also highlighted concerns about Starmer’s decision-making speed, stating: “Sometimes he takes too long to reach decisions and conclusions, and all the while we’re being challenged over what we’re doing.”
The former MP emphasised the need for better communication of Government actions.
He referenced Alastair Campbell’s insights, saying: “You need constantly in Government to be explaining on a day by day basis what the Government is doing, why it’s doing and how it’s doing it to give a sense of momentum moving forward.”
Rammell added: “I think that’s what’s been lacking during our initial period in Government.”
Bill Rammell revealed what he thinks the government is “lacking”
GB News
He added: “She’s someone that he’s got a lot of time for. He doesn’t want to sort dance on her grave, but he’s clearly taken the right decision.”
Leadership hopeful Robert Jenrick characterised the Government as being in “free fall” following Gray’s departure.
James Cleverly, another contender, criticised Labour’s performance, stating: “Labour’s first 100 days have been a disaster, and their civil war continues with the loss of Sue Gray”.
Defence Secretary John Healey, however, rejected suggestions that the Government is at “crisis point”. He praised Gray’s talents and described the situation as “a new Government getting on with the job”.