Deputy PM Rayner's Future Hangs on Ethics Probe Verdict

Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner's political future is at serious risk following her admission of underpaying £40,000 in stamp duty on her £800,000 flat in Hove, which she purchased as her third residence. Rayner initially paid a lower rate by removing her name from her constituency home's deeds, claiming legal advice supported this, but later investigations revealed she owed the higher tax. Independent ethics adviser Sir Laurie Magnus is currently investigating her tax affairs to advise Prime Minister Keir Starmer on whether Rayner can remain in her role, with a decision expected soon. Starmer has publicly supported Rayner for now, but there is significant unease within Downing Street, where some staff doubt she will survive the political fallout, especially given her previous vocal stance against tax misconduct. Critics highlight the controversy as a blow to the Labour government's anti-corruption agenda and question Rayner's credibility, given her past demands for Tory resignations over similar issues. The episode has cast a shadow over Rayner's rising influence and potential leadership prospects amid calls for her resignation or removal.