Sue Gray will not assume the position of prime minister’s envoy to the nations and regions, a decision that follows her recent departure as chief of staff to Sir Keir Starmer. Initially appointed to the role, Gray cited potential distractions as a reason for her withdrawal. A Downing Street source affirmed that the decision was the right one, which was first reported by the Financial Times and the Guardian. Gray had been expected to take a short break before beginning her new duties.