Angela Rayner has been cleared by HM Revenue and Customs of deliberate wrongdoing or carelessness regarding her tax affairs, according to a report in The Guardian. The investigation focused on stamp duty paid on a flat in Hove, which was seen as crucial to any potential leadership bid.
The findings come as Keir Starmer's grip on power appears to be weakening, potentially opening the door for Rayner to mount a leadership challenge. The HMRC probe had cast a shadow over her political future, but the clearance removes a significant obstacle.
Details of the inquiry remain limited, but the resolution is expected to bolster Rayner's position within the Labour Party. The flat in question was purchased several years ago, and the tax treatment had been subject to scrutiny.
