Angela Rayner Faces Calls for Police Probe into Council House Tax Row

Former Ethics Chief Demands Full Investigation

Angela Rayner is under pressure to undergo a full police investigation into her council house tax controversy, as demanded by a former ethics chief. The Labour deputy's stance has also been criticized by a prominent barrister, who believes a jury would not believe her side of the story.

Allegations and Disputes

Questions have arisen regarding whether Angela Rayner should have paid capital gains tax on the proceeds from the sale of her Stockport property in 2015. Neighbors have contested her assertions that the property was her primary residence, a designation that would have exempted her from the tax. Instead, they claim that she actually lived with her then-husband a mile away.

Call for Investigation

Sir Alistair Graham, former chairman of the committee on standards in public life, has urged for a thorough inquiry into the matter. He emphasized the need for a comprehensive police probe to address the allegations and determine if any laws were breached.

Legal Perspective

Renowned lawyer Rebecca Butler expressed skepticism about Rayner's claims, stating that it was highly implausible that she was not residing with her husband and children. Butler suggested that convincing a jury otherwise would be a significant challenge.

Rayner's Defense

Angela Rayner maintains her innocence and asserts that she sought tax and legal guidance regarding the sale of her former council property acquired through the right-to-buy scheme. Despite mounting pressure, both Rayner and Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer have refused requests to disclose the advice received, citing privacy concerns.