Former UK Deputy PM Angela Rayner Resigns Over Stamp Duty Controversy

Angela Rayner, the UK's Deputy Prime Minister and Housing Secretary, resigned amid controversy over her failure to pay the correct stamp duty on a second home, which was linked to a complex family trust arrangement. Her resignation followed a ruling by Government ethics advisor Sir Laurie Magnus that she breached the ministerial code by not seeking specialist tax advice, despite her dedicated public service. Rayner rose from a challenging upbringing on a council estate and left school at 16 pregnant and without qualifications, later working as a care worker and trade unionist before entering politics. Known for her charisma and conviction, Rayner was a rare working-class champion in a government dominated by privately educated elites, and was seen as a significant electoral asset to Prime Minister Keir Starmer. Her resignation marks a sudden halt to what many believed would be an unstoppable political ascent, highlighting her blend of straight-talking authenticity and controversial publicity. Starmer expressed personal sadness at losing a trusted colleague and friend, underscoring the political and personal impact of her departure.