Angela Rayner has been cleared of any deliberate wrongdoing by HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) regarding her tax affairs, she confirmed on Thursday. The former deputy prime minister said she was 'exonerated' after an investigation into whether she deliberately avoided paying the correct tax on a property purchase.
In a statement, Rayner said: 'I have been exonerated by HMRC of the accusation that I deliberately sought to avoid tax. I took reasonable care and acted in good faith, based on the expert advice I received, and HMRC has accepted this.' She added that she had paid any tax owed and was relieved her family could move on.
The development comes amid intense speculation about a potential Labour leadership challenge against Sir Keir Starmer. Health Secretary Wes Streeting has reportedly told allies he is preparing to resign and trigger a contest, while other figures including Rayner, Ed Miliband, and Al Carns are also seen as potential candidates.
Rayner, who resigned from government to cooperate fully with HMRC, is considered a possible contender if a contest materialises. She told ITV: 'I didn't try to avoid paying tax. When this came to my attention I was really shocked.'
Meanwhile, Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham is seeking a route back to Parliament to stand against Starmer, though he faces challenges in finding a seat. A source linked to the Labour National Executive Committee suggested unions might not block his candidacy.
Sir Keir is expected to fight any challenge and will introduce the Social Housing Renewal Bill on Thursday to regain political momentum. Armed forces minister Al Carns, a former Royal Marines officer, has called for action rather than 'more slogans, strategies, press releases or commissions'.
