Angela Rayner Exonerated by HMRC: A Fresh Boost for Potential Leadership Bid

​London, May 15, 2026 –

Former Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner has been officially cleared of any deliberate wrongdoing by HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) following a high-profile investigation into her tax affairs.
​The investigation, which focused on a complex property transaction involving a trust for her son, concluded that while there was an underpayment of Stamp Duty Land Tax (SDLT), Ms. Rayner acted with “reasonable care” and “in good faith.”
​Key Highlights:
​Settlement Reached: Ms. Rayner has paid the outstanding £40,000 in tax. HMRC confirmed that no fines or penalties will be issued, as there was no evidence of tax avoidance or negligence.
​Political Rebirth: Having resigned from the Cabinet last September due to this controversy, the “exoneration” clears the path for her return to frontline politics.
​Leadership Speculation: The timing is significant as Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer faces intense pressure to resign following heavy local election losses. Ms. Rayner told reporters she is ready to “play her part” in the party’s future, signaling a potential bid for the leadership.
​In a statement, Ms. Rayner expressed her relief, saying: “I have been exonerated of the accusation that I deliberately sought to avoid tax. I am relieved that the public can now see I was not careless, but rather dealing with a highly complex area of law.”