Angela Rayner has stepped down from her government roles and as deputy leader of the Labour Party following revelations that she failed to pay sufficient tax on a property in Hove, East Sussex.
The £800,000 flat, which Rayner purchased several years ago, has been at the centre of scrutiny after questions emerged over her tax arrangements. According to reports, she did not pay the full amount owed, prompting mounting political and public pressure.
In a statement announcing her resignation, Rayner acknowledged the controversy and said she wanted to prevent it from overshadowing Labour’s work. “I deeply regret the mistakes made in relation to my property and tax affairs. The Labour Party and the country deserve leaders who can focus entirely on delivering change, not defending personal issues,” she said.
Her departure marks a significant shift within Labour’s leadership team. Party leader Sir Keir Starmer expressed disappointment but thanked Rayner for her contributions, adding that the party would begin the process of electing a new deputy leader in due course.
The resignation is likely to spark fresh debate over standards in public life and financial transparency among senior politicians.
English