FORMER DEPUTY ANGELA RAYNER EXONERATED BY HMRC AFTER EIGHT-MONTH TAX INQUIRY | INFORMING BRITAIN ON WHITEHALL

Angela Rayner has been cleared by HMRC of any deliberate wrongdoing in relation to Stamp Duty paid on a property purchase.

The former Deputy Prime Minister and Housing Secretary confirmed on Thursday 14 May 2026 that the tax authority accepted she acted in good faith on expert advice and had paid the correct amount due.

Angela Rayner had resigned from government earlier to cooperate fully with the investigation.

She stated she had no personal financial interest in a trust linked to her son's financial award and did not own another property at the time of purchase.

HMRC concluded she took reasonable care and followed the advice received.

In her first television interview following the resolution, Ms. Rayner indicated she has not ruled out a future bid for the leadership of The Labour Party.

​She confirmed there had been no agreement with any other senior figure regarding such a move.

The case had attracted significant public and media attention since the investigation began.

Ms. Rayner expressed relief that the matter is now closed and that she can focus on her parliamentary duties.

The development coincides with other senior Labour figures making statements on The Labour Party's direction.

​No further tax liability or penalties were imposed beyond the original payment already made.