Fury as Keir Starmer's chief of staff Sue Gray set to attend national security council meetings despite 'partygate' probe

Labour figures 'furious' at Starmer's decision to allow Gray to attend meetings

Labour figures are 'furious' at Keir Starmer's decision to allow his chief of staff Sue Gray to attend national security council meetings despite her ongoing investigation into 'partygate' allegations.

Gray is currently leading an inquiry into a series of lockdown-breaching parties that were held at Downing Street and other government departments during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Her appointment to the national security council has raised concerns about the potential for conflicts of interest, as she may be privy to sensitive information that could be relevant to her investigation.

Starmer defends decision, says Gray has 'security clearance'

Starmer has defended his decision to allow Gray to attend the meetings, saying that she has the necessary "security clearance" and that her presence will ensure that the government is "fully informed" about the findings of her investigation.

However, Labour sources have told the Guardian that they are "very concerned" about the decision, and that they believe it is a "mistake" to allow Gray to attend the meetings.

One source said: "This is a very sensitive investigation and it is essential that Sue Gray is able to conduct it independently. Allowing her to attend national security council meetings could create a conflict of interest and compromise the integrity of her inquiry."