Angela Rayner is facing a tense 24 hours that could define her political career.
The Labour deputy leader and Housing Secretary is under investigation for potentially underpaying stamp duty on a second home by £40,000, and the outcome of the inquiry could force her to resign.
Meanwhile, party leaders are rallying to support her as speculation swirls over her future.
Keir Starmer Refuses to Commit on Sacking
Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer has repeatedly dodged questions about whether he would sack Rayner if the probe finds her at fault.
Despite the looming scrutiny, Starmer appears determined to keep his deputy in place, even as senior ministers lobby on her behalf.
Ministerial ethics watchdog Sir Laurie Magnus could deliver his verdict as soon as Friday, potentially plunging Labour and the government into chaos.
Rayner’s Tax Misstep Sparks Controversy
The controversy erupted after Rayner admitted she had not paid enough tax when buying an £800,000 flat in Hove over the summer.
Reports indicate she used a Herne Hill-based conveyancing firm for the purchase.
Senior Labour figures argue that Rayner, a working-class Northerner, is being unfairly targeted.
Critics have questioned the Prime Minister’s knowledge of her tax arrangements, especially after he publicly defended her on Monday while reportedly aware of fresh legal advice suggesting she was in the wrong.
Cabinet Rallies Around the Deputy Leader
Labour ministers have rushed to her defense. Chancellor Rachel Reeves voiced “full confidence” in her colleague, while Commons Leader Lucy Powell accused the Tories of attacking Rayner simply because she excels at her job.
Tech Secretary Peter Kyle highlighted that Rayner’s working-class background and Mancunian accent might be contributing factors to the scrutiny she faces.
Financial Background of the Property Purchase
Further details emerged about Rayner’s financial arrangements.
She used funds from a trust set up for her disabled son, Charlie, who was born prematurely, to cover the deposit on her new flat.
The trust received £162,500 when Rayner sold a 25% share of her Ashton-under-Lyne home.
She explained that the trust arrangement was designed to provide stability for her son.
Rayner also confirmed she sought legal advice from three experts regarding the purchase, including a conveyancer and two trust specialists.
Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson emphasized that Rayner had acted in good faith, seeking to follow proper procedures and disclosing all information to the independent adviser.
Public and Political Response
The Deputy Prime Minister faced public backlash after admitting she was ineligible for a £40,000 stamp duty discount.
Her Hove property was vandalized with graffiti, intensifying media scrutiny.
Rayner’s team insists the underpayment was a genuine mistake, and she has been in contact with HMRC to rectify the issue.
Starmer Stands by His Deputy
Despite mounting pressure, Starmer has continued to defend Rayner.
In the Commons, he praised her record, highlighting her achievements in housing, employment rights, local government settlements, planning reforms, and community empowerment.
He described her as a “huge asset” and emphasized her rise from a working-class background to become Deputy Prime Minister.
Investigations Continue
The probe by Sir Laurie Magnus is ongoing, and HMRC is also investigating Rayner’s tax affairs.
As new details emerge, Labour is working to protect both Rayner and the party from further fallout, while the public and political opponents watch closely.
Rayner’s actions over the next 24 hours could determine whether she remains in one of the highest offices in government or steps down amid controversy.