Angela Rayner has voluntarily reported herself to the Prime Minister’s ethics adviser after confessing to underpaying taxes on her second residence.
The Deputy PM disclosed that she had deliberated resignation with her family and committed to settling any outstanding stamp duty requested by HMRC for her £800,000 seaside flat in Hove, East Sussex.
Initially, she had designated the flat as her primary residence for tax purposes based on legal advice. However, recent counsel from a tax expert has led her to acknowledge that she should have paid a higher tax rate, amounting to a potential additional £40,000.
In addition, Angela Rayner shared insights into her family circumstances, including seeking release from a court-ordered injunction to provide greater transparency to the public.
She addressed the complexity of family life, mentioning her divorce in 2023 and the unique arrangements made to ensure stability for her children, particularly her son with special needs.
The sale of her property in Ashton-under-Lyne to a trust was done to secure her son’s future, and the subsequent purchase of a new property in Hove was financed using proceeds from the sale, with advice received indicating potential additional stamp duty obligations due to trust-related provisions.
Angela Rayner expressed regret over the oversight and emphasized her commitment to rectifying the situation with the help of legal experts and HMRC.
She stressed that her decisions have always been centered on her children’s well-being and announced her self-referral to the independent ministerial standards adviser for a thorough review.
The disclosed arrangements aim to provide clarity on the complexities of family life, especially in the face of challenges like disability and divorce, with a focus on securing her children’s long-term welfare.
Angela Rayner concluded by reiterating her dedication to full resolution and transparency in line with the expectations of public service, emphasizing her willingness to cooperate fully with the independent adviser on ministerial standards.