Labour's Deputy Leader, Angela Rayner, finds herself at the centre of a deepening political storm after publicly admitting she failed to pay stamp duty on a property purchase almost a decade ago.
The controversy revolves around the sale of her former council house in Vicarage Road, Stockport, and the subsequent purchase of a new-build seaside flat in 2015. Questions were raised over whether this flat was intended as her main residence, which would have made her eligible for stamp duty relief, or if it was a buy-to-let investment from the outset.
In a significant statement, Ms Rayner confirmed she has now written to HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC), acknowledging the oversight and declaring her readiness to "stump up the cash" for any outstanding tax liability, plus any potential fines.
Proactive Move to Ethics Watchdog
In a move designed to regain control of the narrative, the Ashton-under-Lyne MP has also taken the unusual step of referring herself to Parliament's Independent Complaints and Grievance Scheme. This pre-emptive strike is seen as an attempt to demonstrate transparency and quell the mounting criticism from political opponents.
Ms Rayner has consistently defended her position, stating she received legal advice confirming her actions were "permissible under the rules". However, the continued pressure appears to have prompted this latest action to settle the matter directly with the tax authorities.
A Political Firestorm
The allegation, first brought to light by the Mail on Sunday and pursued by Tory MPs, has become a major sticking point for the Labour leadership. Critics have accused Ms Rayner of hypocrisy, given her party's stance on tax avoidance and enforcement.
By engaging directly with HMRC and the ethics watchdog, Rayner is attempting to draw a line under the affair before it overshadows Labour's general election campaign. The outcome of HMRC's assessment will be crucial in determining whether this strategy is successful or if the political damage will be lasting.
