Angela Rayner Steps Down After Ethics Probe Rules She Broke Ministerial Code
Angela Rayner has left her government roles after the prime minister’s ethics adviser found she failed to adhere to the ministerial code regarding unpaid taxes on her £800,000 flat.
In a significant setback for Keir Starmer, Sir Laurie Magnus determined that while Rayner had "acted with integrity and demonstrated a strong dedication to public service," she had nevertheless violated the ministerial code in her tax dealings.
Rayner’s resignation deals a serious blow to the prime minister, who had previously expressed full support for her. She has stepped down as deputy prime minister, housing secretary, and deputy leader of the Labour Party.
Downing Street confirmed Starmer will now reorganize his cabinet, though Rachel Reeves will stay on as chancellor.
In her resignation letter, Rayner acknowledged that she "deeply regrets" not seeking further tax guidance when purchasing the property. She also cited the strain of media scrutiny on her family, despite describing her rise from "a young mother from a Stockport council estate to the highest levels of government" as "the honor of my life."
Her departure removes one of Labour’s most prominent working-class voices at a time when the party is facing challenges in reconnecting with its traditional voters and lags behind Reform UK in polls.
Rayner referred herself to the ethics adviser after confirming she owed additional taxes due to an incorrect classification of the flat as her sole residence, when she actually spent considerable time at a family home in Greater Manchester.
Prior to buying the flat, she had placed her share of the family property into a trust established in 2020 to support one of her sons, who was born prematurely and sustained lifelong disabilities.
The situation has led to accusations of hypocrisy as the government prepares to impose higher property taxes in the upcoming budget.
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