**Minister Defends Sue Gray's Salary Amid Criticism** Jonathan Reynolds, the business secretary, has dismissed claims of "stunning arrogance" regarding Sue Gray's salary, which is reported to be £170,000 a year—approximately £3,000 more than the Prime Minister's salary. This revelation, initially reported by the BBC, has sparked discussions about the dynamics within the Labour Party's advisory team. The story has raised eyebrows, as it suggests potential internal conflicts among Labour advisers. Some special advisers have expressed frustration, alleging that Gray is responsible for their comparatively low salaries, especially when contrasted with the pay of their Conservative predecessors or their previous earnings within the Labour Party. Reynolds emphasized that the salary structure for advisers is determined by an established process that considers prior experience and job responsibilities, rather than being set by politicians. He clarified that he does not have the authority to determine the pay for his own advisers, highlighting the impartial nature of the salary-setting process. He stated, "There’s a process that sets these pay bands. It reflects previous experience and is a long-established method for determining remuneration within specific pay bands. It’s important for people to understand that these decisions are not influenced by political figures." The ongoing debate underscores the significance of Gray's role and the broader implications of salary disparities within political advisory positions.