Labour's Deputy Leader, Angela Rayner, finds herself at the centre of a mounting political and financial storm as allegations emerge concerning the sale of her former council house. The controversy hinges on whether she avoided a significant tax bill, potentially breaching tax rules.
The property in question, a former council home in Vicarage Road, Stockport, was sold in 2015 for a £48,500 profit. The core allegation, first reported by the Mail on Sunday, suggests that Ms. Rayner should have paid stamp duty on a separate property transaction involving her husband.
The Heart of the Allegation
Critics claim that Ms. Rayner's living arrangements were not as declared. The allegation posits that she was actually living at her husband's house in Lowndes Lane, which would make Vicarage Road a buy-to-let investment rather than her principal private residence. If true, this would have triggered a capital gains tax liability on the sale profit and potentially stamp duty on the arrangement.
Furthermore, questions have been raised about a purported 'property swap' with her husband. If they effectively exchanged properties, it could be viewed as a purchase for stamp duty purposes, a tax it is alleged was not paid.
Political Repercussions and Labour's Defence
The Conservative Party has seized upon the allegations, demanding transparency and accusing the Labour deputy of hypocrisy. Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer has robustly defended his deputy, stating she has taken expert tax advice and is confident no rules were broken.
Ms. Rayner has consistently denied any wrongdoing, maintaining that Vicarage Road was indeed her main home. She has accused the Conservatives of a politically motivated 'smear campaign' designed to distract from government failures.
Official Scrutiny and Public Interest
The situation has escalated with confirmation that Greater Manchester Police assessed information relating to the case, though they initially stated no further action would be taken. However, the force is now reviewing new information provided by a Conservative MP.
Separately, Stockport Council and HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) may also examine the circumstances to determine if any tax was owed or if electoral roll declarations were accurate. The outcome of these reviews could have serious implications for one of Labour's most prominent figures.
