Labour MP Angela Rayner has accepted a paid role with a prestigious speaking agency, it was revealed today, marking a significant shift from her previous strong criticism of politicians taking on work outside Parliament.
From Critic to Participant
The former deputy prime minister, who earns £93,904 annually as the MP for Ashton-under-Lyne, has signed with Chartwell Speakers. The agency's client list includes prominent figures such as former Conservative Prime Minister Liz Truss and ex-chancellors George Osborne and Philip Hammond.
This move comes despite Ms Rayner's own forceful comments on the subject. In May 2023, she posted on social media: 'Being an MP isn’t a second job. It is the job. Labour will put an end to this racket.' Her stance was further highlighted later that year when she criticised the 'shameful' outside earnings of MPs following an undercover operation by the campaign group Led By Donkeys.
Ethical Advice and Restrictions
Prior to accepting the appointment, Ms Rayner sought guidance from Sir Laurie Magnus, Sir Keir Starmer's independent adviser on ministers' interests. In a letter of advice made public, Sir Laurie confirmed that the Labour MP had pledged not to 'provide any insight into your time in government that is covered by confidentiality restrictions' in her work for the agency.
The advice outlined that her work would involve speaking 'at one event for a pensions insurance specialist and then occasionally at private events'. Sir Laurie also imposed several standard conditions on the former minister, including:
- A prohibition on lobbying the UK Government or its arm’s length bodies on behalf of Chartwell Speakers for two years from her last day in office.
- A ban on providing advice related to government contracts or bids to the agency over the same period.
- A mandatory three-month waiting period before she could begin the role.
Background of Controversy and Future Prospects
Ms Rayner's move into paid speaking follows a turbulent period that saw her resign from her senior government roles in September. She stepped down as deputy prime minister, housing secretary, and Labour's deputy leader after a Whitehall investigation concluded she had breached ministerial rules by failing to pay the correct stamp duty on an £800,000 flat.
She had referred herself for investigation after admitting she underpaid property tax by approximately £40,000. In October, she told the House of Commons she would pay any outstanding sum to HMRC, with reports suggesting the bill could reach a five-figure amount plus a potential fine.
Despite the controversy, Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has publicly backed Ms Rayner's return to high office. When asked last month if she would be back in his Cabinet, he stated: 'Yes. She's hugely talented.'
While MPs are permitted to hold second jobs, and there is no suggestion Ms Rayner has broken parliamentary rules, her new role places her among the politicians she once condemned for supplementing their incomes. Her office has been contacted for comment.
