UK Deputy PM Rayner Faces Ethics Probe Verdict Over £40,000 Tax Underpayment

Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner is facing a critical moment in her political career as an independent ethics investigation led by Sir Laurie Magnus nears its conclusion regarding her £40,000 stamp duty underpayment on a £800,000 flat in Hove. Rayner has admitted to the shortfall after initially believing she was not liable for the higher rate due to complex property arrangements involving her constituency home and a family trust, but later received legal advice confirming the duty was owed. While Rayner’s colleagues, including Trade Minister Douglas Alexander, have publicly defended her and called for patience during the investigation, Prime Minister Keir Starmer has refrained from confirming whether he would dismiss her if the ministerial code was found to have been breached. The conveyancing firm involved denied providing tax advice, stating they acted only on information supplied by Rayner. The probe’s outcome will determine whether Rayner can retain her government roles amid mounting opposition calls for her resignation, spotlighting the political sensitivity given her position as housing secretary during a time of council tax hikes on second homes. This controversy underscores the tension between Rayner’s political survival and adherence to ministerial standards.