Overview
- Rayner delivered a personal statement in the Commons, her first public comments since stepping down as deputy prime minister, housing secretary and deputy Labour leader in September.
- She said the underpaid stamp duty was an honestly made mistake linked to a complex family tax position and accepted responsibility.
- Rayner confirmed she is corresponding with HMRC and pledged to pay any tax owed, with reports putting the shortfall at about £40,000.
- The prime minister’s ethics adviser found she breached the ministerial code but said she had acted with integrity.
- Positioning herself to remain a force from the backbenches, she highlighted her role in the Employment Rights Bill and drew warm support from senior Labour figures urging her eventual return.