Labour's deputy leader Angela Rayner is facing intensifying pressure over allegations surrounding her tax affairs and the sale of her former council property, with Conservative MPs now formally requesting a police investigation into whether she provided false information about her main residence.
Property Controversy Deepens
The political storm centres around Rayner's former home in Vicarage Road, Stockport, which she purchased under the Right to Buy scheme in 2007. Questions have emerged about whether she correctly paid capital gains tax when selling the property in 2015 and whether she accurately declared her main residence for council tax purposes.
Conservative Demands Grow
James Daly, Conservative MP for Bury North, has written to Greater Manchester Police urging them to examine whether Rayner may have committed offences by making false declarations about where she was living. This escalation comes after weeks of mounting speculation about the Labour deputy leader's financial arrangements.
"There's a very simple way to end this," a senior Conservative source stated. "Publish the tax advice, publish the legal advice, answer the basic questions."
Labour's Defence Strategy
Labour has consistently defended Rayner, maintaining she has followed all rules and declaring the matter closed. A party spokesperson emphasised that Rayner has taken expert tax advice confirming her position is correct.
However, the controversy shows no signs of abating, with some Conservative figures suggesting the allegations could threaten Rayner's position within the Labour leadership if unanswered questions persist.
What's At Stake?
- Potential capital gains tax liability on the 2015 property sale
- Accuracy of main residence declarations for council tax
- Compliance with electoral registration requirements
- Political credibility ahead of potential general election
As pressure mounts from both political opponents and media scrutiny, all eyes remain on whether Rayner will release further documentation to substantiate her claims of full compliance with all tax and legal obligations.
