No further police action to be taken against Labour's Angela Rayner

She was under investigation over allegations about her living arrangements

Author: Nathan MarshPublished 28th May 2024
Last updated 28th May 2024

Greater Manchester Police says no further action will be taken against Labour's Deputy Leader Angela Rayner.

They had been investigating allegations the MP for Ashton Under Lyne had broken electoral law relating to information about her living arrangements.

In a statement, GMP said:

“Following allegations about Angela Rayner MP, Greater Manchester Police has completed a thorough, carefully considered and proportionate investigation. We have concluded that no further police action will be taken.

“The investigation originated from complaints made by Mr James Daly MP directly to GMP. Subsequent further contact with GMP by members of the public, and claims made by individuals featured in media reporting, indicated a strong public interest in the need for allegations to be investigated.

“Matters involving council tax and personal tax do not fall into the jurisdiction of policing. GMP has liaised with Stockport Council and information about our investigation has been shared with them. Details of our investigation have also been shared with His Majesty’s Revenue and Customs (HMRC).”

In a statement, Angela Rayner blames 'desperate tactics' from the government:

"I welcome the conclusion of the police investigation, and confirmation that no further action will be taken.

"We have seen the Conservative Party use this playbook before - reporting political opponents to the police during election campaigns to distract from their dire record.

"The public have had enough of these desperate tactics from a Tory government with nothing else to say after 14 years of failure.

"I am grateful to all those who have stood by and supported me and my family. My focus now is squarely on securing the change Britain needs, with the election of a Labour government."

A Labour Party spokesperson says today's news 'draws a line under the matter':

“The police have now completed their investigation into claims made by the Conservative Party Deputy Chairman and have concluded that no further action will be taken. Angela cooperated fully with the police investigation throughout.

“Angela has always been clear that she was not liable for capital gains tax on the sale of the home she owned before she was an MP, that she was properly registered to vote, and paid the appropriate council tax. She took expert tax and legal advice which confirms this.

“This draws a line under the matter.”

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