Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has strongly indicated that former deputy prime minister Angela Rayner could be poised for a significant return to frontline politics, describing her as a "fantastic" figure with a clear future role to play in his administration.
Rayner's Resignation Over Tax Issue
Ms Rayner stepped down from her dual roles as deputy prime minister and deputy Labour leader in September, following revelations that she had failed to pay the correct amount of stamp duty on an £800,000 flat purchase in Hove. The tax controversy created substantial political pressure, leading to her resignation from the high-profile positions she had held since Labour's election victory.
Starmer's Public Endorsement
In a revealing interview with Times Radio, Sir Keir offered his most explicit comments yet about Ms Rayner's potential political rehabilitation. "I would like to have Angela back at the right point," the Prime Minister stated unequivocally. "I've always been clear she has a future role to play."
Sir Keir went further in his praise, highlighting Ms Rayner's substantial contributions to Labour's electoral success and subsequent legislative achievements. "She played a huge part in the achievement that we got at the last election," he remarked, adding that the recently passed Employment Rights Act "has got her fingerprints all over it."
Rayner's Continuing Influence
Despite her resignation, Angela Rayner remains the Member of Parliament for Ashton-under-Lyne in Greater Manchester and continues to command considerable respect and popularity within Labour ranks. Political observers note she is widely viewed as a potential successor to Sir Keir should he eventually step down, or as a kingmaker whose endorsement could prove decisive in any future leadership contest.
The Prime Minister's comments suggest a carefully managed rehabilitation process for Ms Rayner, with timing being a crucial consideration. Sir Keir's emphasis on bringing her back "at the right point" indicates strategic planning around her return to government responsibilities.
This development comes as the Labour government seeks to maintain unity and momentum following their election victory, with Ms Rayner's potential return seen as both a reward for loyalty and an acknowledgment of her ongoing political value to the party.
