Inquiry finds breach of ministerial code despite Rayner’s record of public service
London
UK Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner resigned on Friday after an independent inquiry found she had failed to meet the ethical standards required of government ministers over a recent property purchase.
Rayner, who admitted earlier this week that she had underpaid tax on her acquisition of an apartment in Hove, England, said she accepted full responsibility. “I take full responsibility for this error,” she wrote in her resignation letter to Prime Minister Keir Starmer, adding that while she acted in good faith, she should have sought clearer tax advice.
The inquiry, led by Laurie Magnus, the independent adviser on ministerial standards, concluded that although Rayner acted with “integrity” and displayed “exemplary public service,” her actions breached the ministerial code of conduct. Reports suggest she may have saved up to £40,000 by not paying the appropriate stamp duty, a levy applied to property purchases.
Rayner, a prominent figure in the Labour government who previously held the housing brief, has often criticised tax avoidance, particularly under the former Conservative administration. Her resignation therefore carries political weight, given her reputation as one of Labour’s most outspoken voices.
Prime Minister Starmer expressed sadness over her decision but praised her contributions. “I have nothing but admiration for you and huge respect for your achievements in politics,” he wrote in a handwritten note, calling her departure “very sad” but “the right decision.” Rayner’s exit marks a significant shift for the Labour government, which came to power in July 2024 promising higher ethical standards in public office.
