Angela Rayner has been cleared by HMRC of deliberate wrongdoing or carelessness over her tax affairs, according to a Guardian investigation, removing a major obstacle that could pave the way for a potential Labour leadership bid. The former deputy prime minister settled £40,000 in unpaid stamp duty after initially paying a lower rate, but faced no penalty as HMRC found no evidence of tax avoidance. This resolution comes as Keir Starmer’s grip on power weakens following a crushing electoral defeat, sparking intense speculation about who will lead the party next.
In an interview with the Guardian, Rayner described the ordeal as “bruising,” particularly due to the intrusion into her disabled son’s personal life. She expressed concern that the controversy made her appear “in it for myself” rather than standing with ordinary people. The news was welcomed by Labour MPs and supporters, with Tracy Brabin, the mayor of West Yorkshire, saying she was “delighted” the matter was resolved. Brabin added that Rayner should be “part of the conversation” about Labour’s future leadership, emphasizing the need for a government fit for the 21st century.
Political Fallout and Leadership Maneuvering
The HMRC investigation has hung heavily over Rayner since she was forced to resign from the cabinet last September. Now that it is resolved, the door is open for a return to frontline politics. Rayner indicated she may run in the event of a contest, saying she wanted to “play my part” and understood why Labour MPs were so upset after the recent election defeat. She urged Starmer to “reflect on” stepping aside, signaling that a leadership challenge is imminent.
With Labour on the brink of civil war, health secretary Wes Streeting is preparing to launch a leadership challenge on Thursday if he can secure enough MP support to trigger a contest. This move has sparked a frantic scramble on the left of Labour to find a candidate to oppose him. Potential contenders include Ed Miliband and Rayner, while Andy Burnham cannot run from outside parliament. Sources suggest Rayner is not dead set on being the left’s candidate, but her cleared tax affairs remove a key barrier to her candidacy.
Key Reactions from Labour Figures
- Tracy Brabin: “Delighted” the issue is resolved; wants Rayner in leadership conversations.
- Chris Webb, MP for Blackpool South: Many people owe Rayner an apology; she has dedicated her life to public service.
- Arooj Shah, leader of Oldham council: Rayner has been through “undeserved hell,” highlighting the extra scrutiny faced by women in public life.
What This Means for Labour’s Future
The resolution of Rayner’s tax affairs removes a significant distraction and allows her to focus on the party’s direction. Labour is reeling from a devastating election loss, and internal divisions are deepening. A leadership contest could reshape the party’s platform, with Rayner representing the left-wing faction and Streeting appealing to centrists. The outcome will determine whether Labour moves further left or pivots toward the center ground.
Political analysts note that Rayner’s working-class background and union ties make her a strong candidate to reconnect with disillusioned voters. However, she faces challenges, including rebuilding trust after the tax controversy and uniting a fractured party. The coming days will be critical as MPs decide whether to trigger a contest and which candidate they will support.
FAQ: Angela Rayner’s Tax Affair and Leadership Bid
What was the HMRC investigation about?
HMRC investigated Rayner’s tax affairs concerning unpaid stamp duty on her former home. She initially paid a lower rate but later settled £40,000 with no penalty, as HMRC found no deliberate wrongdoing or carelessness.
Can Angela Rayner now run for Labour leader?
Yes. The clearance removes a major obstacle, and Rayner has indicated she wants to “play her part” in any leadership contest. She is considered a leading candidate from the left wing of the party.
Who else might challenge for the Labour leadership?
Health secretary Wes Streeting is preparing to launch a challenge on Thursday. Other possible contenders include Ed Miliband and potentially Andy Burnham, though he cannot run from outside parliament. The race is expected to be highly competitive.
