Angela Rayner embroiled in fresh housing controversy over lobbying firm donation

Labour deputy facing backlash for accepting money from PR firm that lobbies for housing developers

Labour Party deputy Angela Rayner is under fire after it was revealed that she accepted a £6,000 donation from a PR firm that lobbies for housing developers. This revelation has sparked accusations of hypocrisy, with Tory MPs criticizing Rayner for accepting money from firms she has publicly criticized for not building enough homes.

Allegations of hypocrisy mount as Rayner battles political turmoil

This latest controversy comes at a time when Angela Rayner is already facing political turmoil over allegations that she broke the law regarding her former council house. Police are investigating claims that she did not pay enough tax when selling her Stockport home and was registered at the wrong address. Rayner has strongly denied these claims.

MPs call out Rayner for ethical inconsistency

Tory MPs have condemned Rayner's actions, with Tory deputy chairman Craig Tracey labeling it as "unashamed hypocrisy." Similarly, Tory MP Brendan Clarke-Smith criticized Rayner for attacking housing developers while accepting donations from their lobbyists, calling it another example of Labour hypocrisy.

Rayner's ties to lobbying firm raise questions about her stance on affordable housing

Angela Rayner received the donation from Pentland Communications, a firm that represents major housing developers in the UK. Despite her vocal criticism of developers for not building enough affordable housing, Rayner used the money to fund her 'Rayner on the Road' tour across Britain last summer. This has raised concerns about the consistency of her stance on housing issues.

Labour defends Rayner's actions, emphasizing commitment to affordable housing

In response to the controversy, a Labour spokesperson reiterated the party's commitment to addressing the housing crisis and holding major house builders accountable for delivering affordable housing. However, the revelations surrounding Rayner's connection to a lobbying firm have sparked further debate about her ethical conduct and political integrity.

Treasury Committee to investigate tax-related concerns similar to Rayner's case

Meanwhile, the Treasury Select Committee is set to question the Chief Executive of HMRC about tax issues related to council houses purchased under the right to buy scheme. This move follows concerns raised by MPs about the clarity and accessibility of tax guidance for individuals in similar situations to Angela Rayner.