Angela Rayner, the Deputy Leader of the Labour Party, is currently embroiled in controversies regarding her tax affairs and compliance with electoral law. The scrutiny began after allegations related to the sale of her council house in 2015, suggested in a biography by former Conservative deputy chairman, Lord Ashcroft. Rayner has faced questions over whether she accurately declared her main residence during the sale, which could have tax implications.

Greater Manchester Police (GMP) have decided to reassess a decision not to investigate allegations made by Conservative MP James Daly about providing false information on her main residence a decade ago. Initial claims suggested Rayner may have avoided capital gains tax when she sold her council house. Tax expert Dan Neidle speculated that Rayner could be facing a potential tax liability of up to £3,500, depending on her residency status at the time of the sale.

In response to these controversies, Rayner has openly called for transparency among MPs, especially targeting Conservative critics including Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and Chancellor Jeremy Hunt, with a challenge to disclose their tax details, stating “If you show me yours, I’ll show you mine.” She has denied any wrongdoing, describing the allegations as a ‘smear’ and asserting her readiness to comply with authorities by disclosing her tax records if necessary.

The reevaluation by GMP comes amid intensified scrutiny from the Conservative Party, with Rayner’s Labour colleague Steve Reed vocalizing support for her, dismissing the accusations as unfounded. Despite the ongoing investigation and public debate, Rayner remains defiant, emphasizing her adherence to legal advice throughout and dismissing accusations as attempts to discredit her ahead of the forthcoming general election.

This development unfolds as Angela Rayner and Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer prepare for the party’s local election campaign, during which Rayner has also criticized the Tory government’s approach to levelling up funds for councils. The situation highlights the intersection of personal financial affairs with public accountability and political rivalry in the UK.