Angela Rayner, a long-serving Labour MP and former Deputy Leader, has been cleared by Her Majesty's Revenue and Customs (HMRC) of deliberate wrongdoing or carelessness regarding her tax affairs. This development comes as Starmer battles to retain his leadership amid disastrous election results for the Labour Party. The Guardian reported that findings from an inquiry into stamp duty paid on Rayner’s Hove flat have paved the way for a potential leadership bid.
Rayner, who stood down in September 2025 following controversy over her ownership of a £800,000 property, has now announced she is "exonerated" by HMRC. Speaking to reporters after being cleared, Rayner said, “I never deliberately sought to avoid tax and I am glad that this matter can be put behind us.” This statement comes as Health Minister Wes Streeting announces his resignation today, signaling a period of instability within the Labour Party.
The potential leadership contest is poised to intensify with Rayner’s emergence. Starmer faces increasing pressure following the Labour Party's poor performance in recent elections. As the party navigates internal disputes, Rayner’s background and political experience make her a formidable contender for the top position. Her journey from extreme poverty on a council estate in Stockport to becoming a working-class hero has captivated many within the Labour ranks.
Rayner is no stranger to controversy; she once stood down as Deputy Prime Minister and Housing Secretary amid a row over stamp duty on her property, which raised questions about her handling of public funds. However, this latest development appears to have resolved those concerns for now, leaving Rayner in an advantageous position to challenge Starmer.
As the Labour Party grapples with internal strife, Rayner’s clearance by HMRC provides a fresh opportunity for her political career. Her history as a grandmother and clubbing MP adds a unique dimension to her leadership bid, making her both relatable and distinctive within the party's leadership contest.
This article was produced by AVALW News on Thursday, May 14, 2026 based on reporting from 5 verified news sources across 2 countries. Our editorial process cross-references facts from multiple independent outlets to deliver accurate, comprehensive coverage. All original sources are linked below.