Prime Minister Confirms Future Role for Former Deputy Amid Tax Investigation
Prime Minister Keir Starmer has this week made significant comments regarding the political future of his former deputy, Angela Rayner, who resigned from her position in September following a controversy over stamp duty payments. Mr Starmer has explicitly stated that Ms Rayner will return to frontline politics "at the right point," describing her as a "fantastic asset" for the Labour Party with a "big part to play in the future."
Starmer's Public Endorsement and Rayner's Reported Remarks
During an interview with Times Radio, the Prime Minister was pressed on whether Ms Rayner would rejoin the Cabinet table. He responded affirmatively, saying, "I would like to have Angela back at the right point. I've always been clear she has a future role to play." This statement reinforces his earlier praise for her role in helping Labour secure election victory and her instrumental work on the landmark Employment Rights Act, which he noted bears her fingerprints.
Mr Starmer also echoed a comment allegedly made by Ms Rayner to Labour MPs that she is "not dead yet," adding his own perspective: "She's certainly not dead yet. She's got a huge contribution to make, and I look forward to her making it." These remarks came after Ms Rayner was reported to have told attendees at a fundraising dinner last month about her ongoing fight and commitment, despite stepping down from her deputy prime minister role.
Background to Rayner's Resignation and Ongoing HMRC Probe
Angela Rayner resigned from her position in September after admitting to underpaying stamp duty by approximately £40,000 on her seaside home in Hove, East Sussex. The Prime Minister's ethics chief, Sir Laurie Magnus, conducted a rapid investigation that concluded she had breached the ministerial code, although it also acknowledged she had "acted with integrity and with a dedicated and exemplary commitment to public service."
In her resignation statement, Ms Rayner expressed full cooperation with HMRC, stating, "There is no excuse not to pay taxes owed, and I will do so. This was an honestly made mistake, but when you make a mistake you take responsibility." Currently, she faces an ongoing HMRC probe, with allies complaining that the slow pace of this investigation is delaying her potential political comeback.
Political Implications and Public Opinion
The situation raises important questions about accountability, redemption, and the future of key figures within the Labour Party. Mr Starmer's continued support for Ms Rayner suggests a strategic move to retain her influence and expertise, particularly given her popularity and contributions to employment rights reforms. However, the unresolved tax investigation adds a layer of complexity to her return timeline.
As debates swirl within political circles about the appropriateness and timing of her comeback, public opinion remains divided. Some view her resignation as a necessary step for upholding standards, while others argue her talents and experience should not be sidelined indefinitely. The Prime Minister's vow indicates a careful balancing act between ethical governance and party unity.
With Keir Starmer facing ongoing demands to reinstate Angela Rayner, the decision ultimately hinges on the resolution of the HMRC probe and broader political considerations. Her potential return could significantly impact Labour's policy direction and internal dynamics in the coming months.
