Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson has defended Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner over accusations of tax avoidance related to the purchase of a flat in Hove, East Sussex. Phillipson stated that Rayner had followed all rules and requirements regarding the property transaction.
Rayner faced scrutiny after reports emerged that she avoided paying £40,000 in stamp duty by listing the £800,000 Hove flat as her only property. However, she had previously removed her name from the deed of her constituency home in Ashton-under-Lyne, Greater Manchester, which was reported as her primary residence to avoid council tax on her government-owned London flat.
Phillipson told Times Radio on Sunday: 'Angela Rayner has been clear that she followed all the rules and requirements... she has done everything that has been asked of her.' She added that individuals are entitled to spend their money as they choose, provided they adhere to regulations.
The row has intensified ahead of the budget, with reports that Chancellor Rachel Reeves is considering property tax reforms, including replacing stamp duty with an annual property tax. Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch accused Labour of planning 'a new war on family homes,' citing ministers who seemingly avoid paying taxes themselves.
