UK Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner Resigns Over Property Tax Underpayment

Angela Rayner has resigned from her positions as the UK's Deputy Prime Minister, Housing Secretary, and Deputy Leader of the Labour Party following an independent inquiry that found she underpaid £40,000 in stamp duty on a property purchase.

The investigation, led by ethics adviser Sir Laurie Magnus, concluded that Rayner acted in good faith but failed to meet the required ethical standards by not seeking appropriate tax advice.

In her resignation letter to Prime Minister Keir Starmer, Rayner stated, "I take full responsibility for this error."

Rayner's departure has prompted a cabinet reshuffle, with Foreign Secretary David Lammy appointed as the new Deputy Prime Minister and Justice Secretary.

Prime Minister Starmer expressed his sadness over Rayner's resignation, writing, "I have nothing but admiration for you and huge respect for your achievements in politics."

Rayner, known for her working-class background and outspoken nature, has returned to the back benches, where she is expected to continue advocating for higher taxes on the wealthy.

Her resignation comes at a challenging time for the Labour government, which is facing declining support and internal unrest ahead of the upcoming November budget.