Angela Rayner Acknowledges Stamp Duty Underpayment on Home Purchase
Angela Rayner has acknowledged that she underpaid stamp duty on her recent purchase of an £800,000 flat in Hove.
In a personal statement, the deputy prime minister explained that she had initially classified the flat as her primary residence for tax purposes on legal advice. However, after consulting a tax expert in recent days, she now believes she should have paid the higher rate, which could amount to an additional £40,000.
Rayner also shared previously undisclosed details about her family situation after successfully requesting the lifting of a court-imposed restriction.
### Full Statement from Angela Rayner
"Given the considerable attention to my living arrangements, I want to provide clarity as openly as possible.
"Until now, a court order prevented me from sharing certain personal details. In the interest of transparency, I sought permission to have this restriction lifted, which was granted last night.
"Family life can be complex, and like many others, mine has faced challenges. I have always strived to balance being a mother to my children with my responsibilities in public service.
"Recent speculation has focused on my living situation, particularly the home I still share with my ex-husband and family. While I do not find it easy to discuss private matters, I take my role seriously and aim to be as transparent as possible while protecting my family. To address concerns, I have decided to explain the reasons behind my arrangements.
"In 2023, my ex-husband and I divorced. Like many separated parents, our priority was ensuring our children’s wellbeing through this transition. To maintain stability, we agreed to a shared living arrangement where the children stay in the family home while we take turns residing there. We also prioritized securing provisions for our child, who has special educational needs.
"A court-established trust was set up in 2020 following a difficult incident involving my son, who was born prematurely with lifelong disabilities. The trust was created to manage financial support for him—a common practice in such circumstances.
"To ensure his continued stability in the family home, which was adapted for his needs, we agreed to transfer ownership of the property to this trust, of which he is the sole beneficiary.
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