UK Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner resigns

Britain’s Deputy Prime Minister and Labour Party Deputy Leader Angela Rayner has announced her resignation, plunging the country’s centre-left government into further turmoil.

Rayner stepped down following revelations of a housing property tax scandal, admitting she failed to pay adequate taxes on an apartment purchased in Hove due to “bad advice.” This admission has drawn severe criticism from opposition parties and the media, especially given Rayner’s previous strong condemnation of Conservative ministers involved in similar controversies.

In a statement released on Friday, Rayner said the intense media scrutiny had made it “unbearable” for her to continue in her roles as Deputy Prime Minister, Housing Secretary, and Deputy Leader of the Labour Party. She added, “While I understand my life will be properly examined, my family’s private life should not have been made so public.”

Rayner was widely regarded as a rising star within the Labour Party, known for her straightforward, relatable style and strong Northern English accent, which helped unite factions within the party. She became a mother at 16 and previously worked in elder care and trade union activism before entering politics.

Labour’s popularity has waned since their decisive victory last July, with the new Reform UK party rapidly gaining support. Rayner’s resignation marks a significant setback for the party, which valued her populist appeal both inside Parliament and among voters.