Angela Rayner Resigns as UK Deputy Prime Minister Over Stamp Duty Underpayment

Angela Rayner has resigned from her positions as UK Deputy Prime Minister, Housing Secretary, and Deputy Leader of the Labour Party following revelations of underpaying £40,000 in stamp duty on a property purchase.

In a letter to Prime Minister Keir Starmer, Rayner stated, "I deeply regret my decision to not seek additional specialist tax advice given both my position as Housing Secretary and my complex family arrangements. I take full responsibility for this error."

The government's ethics adviser, Sir Laurie Magnus, concluded that while Rayner acted with integrity, she breached the Ministerial Code by failing to seek proper tax advice.

Prime Minister Starmer expressed sadness over her resignation, acknowledging her contributions and stating that she would remain a significant figure within the party.

Rayner's departure has prompted a cabinet reshuffle, with David Lammy appointed as Deputy Prime Minister and Justice Secretary, Yvette Cooper as Foreign Secretary, and Shabana Mahmood moving to the Home Office.

This resignation marks a significant setback for the Labour Party, as Rayner was seen as a bridge between the party's centrist and left-wing factions.