UK: Deputy PM Rayner Admits to Stamp Duty Underpayment

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2 days ago

Above: Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner arrives in Downing Street, London, on Sept. 2, 2025. Image copyright: Aaron Chown/PA Images/Getty Images

story last updated 12 hrs ago

The Spin

Pro-government narrative

Rayner deserves sympathy. Her tax error stems from genuine family complexities — a divorce, a disabled child and a messy personal life. Unlike typical scandals of greed and deception, this was poor advice during personal turmoil. Her transparency in self-reporting shows integrity. While Labour have suffered political damage, Rayner's authenticity remains a valuable asset.

New Statesman X

Opposition narrative

Rayner's tax dodge is pure hypocrisy. She's spent years finger-jabbing at Tory "sleaze" while quietly gaming the system herself. Her tearful excuses about family troubles don't excuse deliberate tax avoidance. As Housing Secretary overseeing the very system she exploited, her position is laughable. Starmer's unconditional support shows weak leadership — Rayner should resign immediately.

X The Telegraph