Angela Rayner, Britain’s deputy prime minister, resigned Friday after admitting she breached the ministerial code by underpaying property tax. The Labour deputy leader acknowledged failing to pay the correct surcharge on an £800,000 flat in Hove and referred herself to the government’s ethics adviser.
Ethics chief Laurie Magnus concluded she ignored legal cautions and failed to uphold ministerial standards.
In her resignation letter to Prime Minister Keir Starmer, Rayner said: “I accept that I did not meet the highest standards. I deeply regret not seeking additional specialist tax advice and take full responsibility.” She also stepped down as housing minister.
Starmer, who has led a fragile government since July 2024, called her departure “very sad” but insisted Rayner would remain a major party figure. Labour already faces crises over migration, welfare U-turns, and rising support for Nigel Farage’s Reform UK.
Rayner wrongly declared the flat as her main home after selling her family house share to her son’s trust. Although twice told the reduced tax rate applied, the advice was not professional, and an inquiry found she breached standards.
Rayner, once tipped as a future Labour leader, rose from a deprived Stockport estate to become deputy leader. A straight-talking figure popular with working-class voters, she has long been a target of Conservatives and right-wing media.
