The Deputy Prime Minister and Housing Secretary was forced out after admitting making a mistake in good faith by underpaying tax on a seaside flat she bought in Hove, Sussex
The Prime Minister has paid a highly person tribute to Angela Rayner after her “very sad” resignation.
Ms Rayner quit the Government on Friday, telling Keir Starmer she takes “full responsibility” for her stamp duty error.
The Deputy Prime Minister and Housing Secretary was forced out after admitting underpaying tax on a seaside flat she bought in Hove, Sussex.
Ms Rayner said it was a mistake made in good faith – but said: “I accept that I did not meet the highest standards in relation to my recent property purchase.”
Mr Starmer has now expressed he has “nothing but admiration” for Ms Rayner, in a highly personal handwritten letter.
The PM called her exit the “right decision”, but recognise how painful it was for Ms Rayner, who has also stood down as deputy leader of the Labour party.
Ms Rayner reported herself to the independent standards advisor, with the verdict delivered on Monday morning.
Ethics watchdog Sir Laurie Magnus said Ms Rayner had “acted with integrity and with a dedicated and exemplary commitment to public service” but concluded she breached the ministerial code over her tax affairs.
Scroll down to read The PM’s tribute in full
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“Dear Angela,
“Thank you for informing me of your decision to resign from the Government. I am very sad that your time as Deputy Prime Minister, Secretary of State and Deputy Leader of the Labour Party has ended in this way.
“As you know we acted in accordance with the strengthened system relating to ministerial conduct that we put in place on coming into Government.
“You were right to refer yourself to the Independent Adviser on Ministerial Standards and right to act on his conclusion.
“Although I believe you have reached the right decision, it is a decision which I know is very painful for you. You have given your all to making the Labour Government a success and you have been a central part of our plan to make Britain fairer for working families.
“Your work at MHCLG (Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government) to help build the homes that Britain needs has been hugely important and your work to create more fairness in the workplace through the Employment Rights Bill represents a very significant achievement that will change the lives of millions of people.
“On a personal note, I am very sad to be losing you from the Government. You have been a trusted colleague and a true friend for many years. I have nothing but admiration for you and huge respect for your achievements in politics.
“I know that many people of all political persuasions admire that someone as talented as you is the living embodiment of social mobility.
“Even though you won’t be part of the Government, you will remain a major figure in our party. I know you will continue to fight for the causes you care so passionately about.
“My very best wishes and with real sadness,
“Keir.”