Overview

• Independent standards adviser Sir Laurie Magnus found Rayner breached the ministerial code, noting her cooperation and good faith but concluding she failed to meet required standards.
• Rayner acknowledged underpaying Stamp Duty Land Tax on a flat in Hove after relying on incorrect legal advice, with the shortfall reported at roughly £40,000–£42,000.
• She stepped down as deputy prime minister and housing minister and also resigned her role as Labour’s deputy leader.
• Rayner cited the transfer of part-ownership of her family home into a trust for her disabled son as a factor complicating her residence status for tax purposes.
• Prime Minister Keir Starmer now moves to reorganize his cabinet as opposition figures intensify attacks over the government’s handling of the episode.