Vindication for Angela Rayner: Police Drop Investigation into Housing Claims Amidst Tory Accusations

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The parliamentarian expressed relief following the resolution of allegations that she violated election laws in 2010 concerning her housing situation, which she consistently refuted. She also criticized the Conservatives for employing "desperate strategies" to "shift attention away from their poor performance."

Political correspondent @NifS

Tuesday, May 28, 2024, 6:

Authorities have decided not to proceed with any actions regarding allegations about Angela Rayner of the Labour Party concerning her housing situation in 2010.

Earlier this year, detectives from Greater Manchester Police began probing allegations against the deputy leader of the party. It was reported that she might have been residing mostly at her then-husband's place in Stockport, while her voter registration was at a different address close by, potentially violating electoral regulations.

Ms. Rayner consistently refuted the accusations, and initially, the police department chose not to investigate the matter.

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Subsequently, they were alerted by Conservative MP James Daly about allegations from neighbors that conflicted with the assertions made by the Labour MP, prompting them to initiate an investigation.

The police department has issued a statement announcing that after conducting a detailed and balanced investigation, they have decided not to pursue any further action.

In her response, Ms. Rayner embraced the news and criticized the Conservatives, accusing them of employing "desperate strategies" to undermine her.

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"She pointed out that it's a familiar strategy for the Conservative Party to shift attention away from their poor performance by lodging complaints against political rivals with the police during electoral contests," she stated.

"The public is tired of these last-ditch efforts by a Conservative government that has nothing new to offer after 14 years of shortcomings."

The vice leader expressed gratitude, saying, "I appreciate everyone who has supported me and my family during this time. My primary goal now is to help bring about the transformation the UK requires by working towards a Labour victory in the upcoming election."

A spokesperson for the Conservative Party commented, "As noted by tax specialist and Labour Party affiliate Dan Neidle, Rayner has yet to offer an explanation."

"Sir Keir Starmer has the opportunity to resolve the situation by reviewing and then releasing the tax guidance that the Labour Party asserts will vindicate his embattled deputy."

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The police department announced that it has shared findings from their inquiry with Stockport Council and His Majesty's Revenue and Customs (HMRC), following media claims that she evaded capital gains tax on the sale of her former council house, which she has once again refuted.

It is reported that following a review initiated by Ms. Rayner, HMRC determined that she did not owe any capital gains tax.

An HMRC representative stated that they are unable to discuss individual cases due to laws protecting taxpayer privacy.

In a recent statement, a representative from Stockport Council mentioned, "The council has examined and replied to all communications regarding this issue, including details from the Greater Manchester Police (GMP). The police have determined that no additional action will be pursued."

"The council has decided not to pursue any additional measures."

The police force stated that the investigation was initiated following grievances filed directly with GMP by Mr James Daly MP.

"Further interactions between the public and GMP, along with statements from people highlighted in news reports, showed a significant public demand for the investigation of these allegations."

They further clarified: "Issues related to council tax and personal tax are not within the scope of police authority.

"GMP has collaborated with Stockport Council, providing them with details regarding our investigation. Information about our inquiry has also been communicated to His Majesty's Revenue and Customs (HMRC)."

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A spokesperson for the Labour Party stated, "The police have concluded their inquiry into allegations made by the deputy chairman of the Conservative Party, determining that no additional actions will be pursued. Angela was fully cooperative with the police throughout their investigation."

Angela has consistently stated that she was not responsible for paying capital gains tax from the sale of her previous home before becoming an MP, that her voter registration was in order, and that she paid the correct amount of council tax. She obtained professional tax and legal advice to verify these points.

"This puts an end to the issue."

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