Labour's deputy leader Angela Rayner is facing an internal party investigation into allegations about her tax affairs and the sale of a former council house, in a development that threatens to overshadow the party's election campaign.
Leader Sir Keir Starmer has confirmed that the party is conducting its own probe into the claims, which have been relentlessly pursued by Conservative critics and some sections of the media. The investigation will examine whether Rayner properly declared her main residence for tax purposes when she sold a property in Stockport in 2015.
Mounting Political Pressure
The allegations centre on whether Rayner should have paid capital gains tax on the sale of her former home, which was bought under the right-to-buy scheme. Critics claim she may have falsely declared the property as her principal residence, potentially avoiding thousands in taxes.
Rayner has consistently denied any wrongdoing, stating she followed all tax rules and declaring the investigation a "politically motivated attack" designed to damage Labour's election prospects. She has offered to resign if found to have committed any criminal offence.
Starmer's Full Support
Despite the investigation, Sir Keir Starmer has thrown his full support behind his deputy, describing her as "doing a brilliant job" and emphasizing his confidence in her integrity. However, he acknowledged the need for transparency, stating "it's important that the matters are fully investigated and fully answered."
The Labour leader has drawn parallels with previous political figures who faced similar scrutiny, including former deputy prime minister John Prescott, who was investigated over his own tax affairs without facing charges.
Timing Couldn't Be Worse
The investigation comes at a critical time for Labour, who maintain a strong lead in opinion polls ahead of the next general election. The party had hoped to focus its campaign on attacking Conservative economic management and the cost-of-living crisis, rather than defending its own deputy leader.
Political analysts suggest the controversy could potentially damage Labour's carefully crafted image of competency and integrity, though most believe it unlikely to significantly impact the party's substantial poll lead.
The investigation is expected to be conducted by Labour's internal governance and legal teams, with findings likely to be presented to the party's ruling National Executive Committee.
