The deputy prime minister of Keir Starmer’s government in Britain, Angela Rayner, submitted her resignation, two days after admitting that she paid lower property transfer tax when purchasing an apartment.
“I have decided to resign as deputy prime minister and housing secretary, as well as from my position as deputy leader of the Labour Party,” the 45-year-old MP stated.
Rayner becomes the eighth member of the government to leave, with her resignation considered the most damaging so far. Despite Starmer’s initial support, she admitted her mistake and took full responsibility, expressing regret for not seeking specialized tax advice.
The British prime minister said he regrets the development, but emphasized that the decision was correct. With Labour trailing in polls against Reform UK, the loss of Rayner, who was considered a bridge between different wings of the party and a potential successor to Starmer, represents a major blow.
The resignation is part of a wave of departures that already numbers eight ministers and junior ministers – five for misconduct – a record number for a British prime minister in such a short period, at least since 1979.
