UK Deputy PM Angela Rayner Resigns Over Stamp Duty Tax Breach

Angela Rayner, the Deputy Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, resigned after admitting to underpaying stamp duty on a flat purchase due to a complex trust arrangement involving a property held for her disabled son. The controversy arose because Rayner paid the lower stamp duty rate for a primary residence, while tax law required a higher rate for second homes, as the family home remained legally considered hers despite being placed in a trust. An independent ethics investigation found that she breached the ministerial code by not seeking additional specialist tax advice and failing to heed legal counsel. Rayner expressed deep regret over the error and took full responsibility, while Prime Minister Keir Starmer lamented her departure but affirmed her ongoing importance to the Labour Party. The scandal has led to significant political fallout, including a cabinet reshuffle and renewed scrutiny of the government's communication and tax policy credibility, especially as Rayner was a popular figure among working-class voters and Labour grassroots supporters. MPs defended Rayner's integrity but acknowledged the high standards expected from public officials, particularly working-class women in politics.