Summary
Angela Rayner, the deputy prime minister, consulted three individuals before buying an £800,000 flat in Hove. She has admitted underpaying stamp duty, a type of property tax, and is under investigation to determine if she should have paid more. Rayner has asked tax authorities to investigate her tax payment and could face penalties if found at fault.
Key Facts
- Angela Rayner consulted three people about her flat purchase: one experienced in conveyancing and two in trust law.
- She admitted underpaying stamp duty on her £800,000 flat in Hove.
- Rayner did not consult experts in complex tax law about the full purchase details.
- She blames the underpayment on initial legal advice that did not account for her situation.
- Rayner could face a £12,000 penalty if her actions are deemed careless or a 100% fine if deliberate.
- The Independent Adviser on Ministers' Interests is investigating to determine if Rayner took appropriate advice.
- Political figures are divided, with some calling for her resignation while others express confidence in the investigation process.
- Rayner has contacted tax authorities to resolve the issue and has referred herself for investigation by the prime minister's standards adviser.
