Angela Rayner Resigns Over Stamp Duty Tax Error — Ethics Report Forces Deputy PM to Step Down

Angela Rayner has resigned as Deputy Prime Minister and Housing Secretary. The decision came after an ethics report found she breached the ministerial code. She admitted underpaying stamp duty on a property in Hove, East Sussex.

Rayner also stepped down as Deputy Leader of the Labour Party. Her resignation followed growing pressure from media, opposition parties, and internal Labour voices. The prime minister has begun reshuffling his cabinet.

Why Angela Rayner Resigned — Ministerial Code Breach Confirmed

Rayner had referred herself to the independent ethics adviser, Sir Laurie Magnus. The report revealed she failed to seek expert tax advice on the purchase of her £800,000 flat. Two legal teams advised her to consult tax professionals, but she did not follow through.

Magnus concluded that Rayner did not meet the “highest standards of proper conduct” required under the Ministerial Code. Though he acknowledged her cooperation and intent, the breach was deemed serious.

Rayner accepted the findings and said she took full responsibility. She cited the stress on her family as a key reason for resigning. In her resignation letter, she said, “It was never my intention to do anything other than pay the right amount.”

What This Means for Labour and Starmer’s Leadership

Rayner’s resignation is a major blow to Keir Starmer’s government. The Prime Minister expressed sadness in a handwritten letter, saying she remains “a major figure” in the party. But her exit raises many questions about Labour’s internal leadership and future direction.

Starmer is now expected to appoint a new Deputy Prime Minister. A wider reshuffle is already underway. Analysts believe this could be an attempt to shift focus away from the scandal and restore confidence in government.

Opposition leaders, including Kemi Badenoch and Nigel Farage, have seized on the crisis. Farage called the resignation “inevitable,” while Badenoch said Starmer showed “no principle, no backbone.”

Angela Rayner resigns after ethics probe confirms ministerial code breach. Labour faces reshuffle as fallout continues.

Thought you’d like to know-

Q1: Why did Angela Rayner resign?

Angela Rayner resigned due to breaching the ministerial code after underpaying stamp duty on a property. She failed to seek proper tax advice despite being advised to do so.

Q2: What did the ethics report say?

The report found that Rayner acted with integrity but failed to meet conduct standards. She ignored legal advice urging her to get specialist tax input.

Q3: What role did Angela Rayner hold?

She served as Deputy Prime Minister, Housing Secretary, and Deputy Leader of the Labour Party before resigning.

Q4: How does this affect the Labour Party?

Her resignation forces a reshuffle. It also raises questions about leadership and potential shifts in party direction.

Q5: Could Angela Rayner face a fine?

Yes. Tax experts suggest HMRC may fine her 20–30% of the unpaid stamp duty, amounting to £8,000–£12,000.