Tories call for HMRC investigation into Angela Rayner stamp duty scandal
Pressure mounts on deputy PM as Conservatives demand stamp duty probe
- The Conservatives have called on HMRC to launch an investigation into Angela Rayner for alleged tax evasion after she admitted underpaying stamp duty on a seaside flat in Hove.
- Tory chairman Kevin Hollinrake sent a letter to HMRC, stating that Ms Rayner's explanation of inaccurate legal advice 'cannot withstand scrutiny' and requested a full investigation, including potential penalties.
- Ms Rayner has referred herself to the Prime Minister’s independent ethics adviser and is working with expert lawyers and HMRC to resolve the matter and pay any outstanding amount.
- The alleged underpayment arose because Ms Rayner reportedly removed her name from the deeds of her family home in Ashton-under-Lyne, placing her stake into a trust for her disabled son, which allowed her to classify the Hove flat as her only property.
- Despite calls from some political figures for her resignation or sacking, Sir Keir Starmer has publicly backed Ms Rayner, expressing pride in sitting alongside her and highlighting her policy contributions.