Angela Rayner was subjected to a humiliating live GB News segment where her potential exclusion from Andy Burnham's future Cabinet was debated. The discussion centered on whether her controversies had caused irreparable reputational damage, leaving her unlikely to hold a key role in a Burnham-led government.
Rayner's Resignation Over Tax Breach
Rayner, the former deputy prime minister, resigned in September 2025 after an investigation found she breached the ministerial code. The breach stemmed from her failure to seek expert tax advice when purchasing an £800,000 flat in Hove, resulting in an underpayment of £40,000 in stamp duty. She formally resigned in the House of Commons in October 2025, while also serving as housing minister.
Burnham's Likely Cabinet Excludes Rayner
With Andy Burnham emerging as the front-runner to replace Keir Starmer as Labour leader, GB News presenter Alex Armstrong listed his probable Cabinet picks, including Wes Streeting, Ed Miliband, Lisa Nandy, and Shabana Mahmood. Armstrong noted: "Off the list is Angela Rayner, the architect behind Andy Burnham's devolution agenda." He added, "Everyone else seems to have quite a strong position; she's coming from a position of weakness; she didn't have to barter with him." Guest Paul Cox questioned: "Where does she fit in it?"
Impact on Rayner's Political Future
The segment highlighted Rayner's diminished standing within the party, contrasting with her earlier role as a key ally and architect of Burnham's devolution policies. The discussion suggested that her resignation and the associated scandal have significantly weakened her bargaining power, potentially sidelining her from a future Cabinet.
