Sir Keir's Support
Sir Keir Starmer has publicly supported Angela Rayner in the midst of the capital gains tax controversy surrounding her council home sale, despite not having seen the complete legal advice on the matter.
Tax Experts' Estimate
Tax experts have estimated that Ms. Rayner could potentially owe up to £3,000 in capital gains tax following allegations that she may have avoided paying the full amount on the property sale.
Starmer's Stance
When questioned about his stance, Sir Keir mentioned that while he has not personally reviewed the full legal advice, he is aware of the overall conclusion provided by the experts.
Privacy Concerns
Sir Keir emphasized the importance of privacy and mentioned potential personal circumstances related to Ms. Rayner's living arrangements, expressing his respect for her privacy and family matters.
Angela Rayner's Response
Addressing the allegations, Angela Rayner emotionally stated that there was no intention of deceit or conspiracy, highlighting a challenging family situation during that time. She also confirmed that she has sought expert tax advice and is prepared to pay the necessary Capital Gains Tax.
New Biography Claims
The claims regarding Ms. Rayner's living situation are detailed in a new biography titled 'Red Queen' by Lord Ashcroft, suggesting that she may have resided at her husband's address while owning the council property.
Right-to-Buy Scheme
Angela Rayner made a profit of £48,500 on the home purchased through the 'right-to-buy' scheme, allowing local authority tenants to acquire their properties at a discounted rate.
Despite the ongoing scrutiny, Ms. Rayner remains firm in her stance that she has followed expert advice and is willing to fulfill her tax obligations.