Labour's top brass has closed ranks around Deputy Leader Angela Rayner as she faces intensified Conservative attacks over her past property dealings, in a row now dubbed 'Vicarsgate'.
Senior party figures, including Leader Keir Starmer, have mounted a vigorous defence of Ms Rayner following allegations about the 2015 sale of her former council house in Stockport.
Tory Demands for Police Probe
Conservative MPs, led by Deputy Chairman James Daly, are pushing for Greater Manchester Police to reopen an investigation into whether Ms Rayner breached electoral law or committed tax fraud regarding her declared main residence.
The allegations centre on claims that Ms Rayner may have falsely declared her primary address, potentially avoiding capital gains tax on the property sale. She has consistently denied any wrongdoing, stating she paid all required taxes and followed all legal guidelines.
Starmer's Unwavering Support
In a show of solidarity, Sir Keir Starmer has publicly backed his deputy, stating: 'Angela Rayner has been fully transparent about this situation. She's provided expert tax advice confirming her position, and I have complete confidence in her.'
Shadow Chancellor Rachel Reeves and other shadow cabinet members have echoed this support, characterising the attacks as a 'desperate political smear campaign' designed to distract from government failures.
The Core of the Controversy
At the heart of the matter is whether Ms Rayner should have paid capital gains tax on the sale of her ex-council home, which she bought under the right-to-buy scheme and later sold for a £48,500 profit.
Critics claim she may have incorrectly listed the property as her principal residence while allegedly living primarily at her husband's address elsewhere. Ms Rayner maintains she followed all rules and regulations throughout the process.
As pressure mounts from Conservative quarters, this political battle shows no signs of abating, potentially becoming a significant point of contention as the next general election approaches.
