Labour's Deputy Leader, Angela Rayner, is facing a formal parliamentary standards investigation and a potential police probe into allegations she avoided thousands of pounds in tax on the sale of her £800,000 former council house.
The controversy centres on her one-time residence in Vicarage Road, Stockport, which she bought with a discount under the Right-to-Buy scheme before selling it for a significant profit in 2015.
At the Heart of the Allegations
Central to the claims is whether Ms Rayner correctly declared this property as her main residence for tax purposes. Critics, including senior Tory MPs, allege she may have owed approximately £1,500 in stamp duty and up to £3,500 in capital gains tax if it was not her principal home.
Questions have also been raised about her living arrangements at the time, specifically whether she was primarily living at the Vicarage Road address with her children or at her husband's separate property, a potential breach of the parliamentary code of conduct regarding the accurate registration of members' interests.
Mounting Political Pressure
The saga has escalated dramatically, with Greater Manchester Police assessing a complaint about the matter. Simultaneously, Parliamentary Standards Commissioner Daniel Greenberg has confirmed he is now investigating whether she breached the MPs' code of conduct.
Labour has staunchly defended Ms Rayner, maintaining she followed all the rules. A party spokesperson stated, "Angela has always complied with the rules and will co-operate with any investigation to clear this up." They have accused the Conservatives of orchestrating a politically motivated smear campaign.
What Happens Next?
The outcome of these investigations could have serious ramifications. If found in breach of parliamentary rules, Ms Rayner could face sanctions. A police investigation that finds evidence of tax evasion could lead to far more severe legal consequences.
This story continues to develop and threatens to overshadow Labour's messaging as the party positions itself for a potential general election victory, promising a government of "integrity and professionalism."
