Angela Rayner has been cleared of deliberate wrongdoing by HM Revenue and Customs over her tax affairs, removing a potential barrier to a leadership bid as uncertainty surrounds Sir Keir Starmer's future. The former deputy leader settled £40,000 in unpaid stamp duty but faced no penalty from the investigation, which had prompted her resignation from the government.
Speaking to the Guardian, Rayner said she would not 'trigger' a contest but indicated she could run if one occurred. She urged colleagues to 'get through' the current crisis quickly, acknowledging their anger and upset. Meanwhile, Health Secretary Wes Streeting is reportedly preparing to resign on Thursday to challenge for the top job, though he must secure the backing of 81 Labour MPs to force a formal contest.
Chancellor Rachel Reeves warned against 'plunging the country into chaos' after GDP figures showed 0.6% growth in the first quarter. Addressing reporters, she said Labour MPs had an 'important decision to make' and should not risk the economic recovery. Chief Secretary to the Treasury James Murray expressed hope that Streeting would remain Health Secretary 'by the end of the day'.
Other potential challengers include Energy Secretary Ed Miliband, while West Yorkshire Mayor Tracy Brabin said 'we can't continue as we are'. Around 87 MPs have publicly called for Starmer's resignation, but no single candidate has unified support. The Prime Minister's future remains uncertain as the party debates its direction following poor local election results.
