Labour Party Deputy Angela Rayner Faces Fresh Housing ‘Hypocrisy’ Storm
Labour Party deputy leader Angela Rayner is facing backlash after it was revealed that she accepted a £6,000 donation from a PR firm that lobbies for housing developers. This news has sparked accusations of hypocrisy, as Rayner has been vocal in criticizing housing developers for not building enough homes.
Tory MPs have slammed Rayner for her alleged hypocrisy, with Tory deputy chairman Craig Tracey stating, “This is exactly the kind of unashamed hypocrisy we’ve come to expect from Labour.” Similarly, Tory MP Brendan Clarke-Smith criticized Rayner for attacking housing developers while accepting money from their lobbyists.
The donation from Pentland Communications helped fund Rayner’s ‘Rayner on the Road’ tour of Britain last summer. Pentland represents major housing developers such as Taylor Wimpey and Barratt Developments. Rayner, who is also the shadow housing secretary, has been a vocal advocate for affordable housing and has pledged to hold developers accountable for their responsibilities.
Barrie Cunning, the owner of Pentland Communications, posted pictures of himself on Rayner’s battle bus, expressing his honor to be part of the tour. A Labour spokesperson defended Rayner, stating that the party is focused on addressing the housing crisis and holding major house builders accountable for delivering affordable housing.
In addition to this controversy, Rayner is also facing scrutiny over allegations that she broke the law regarding the sale of her ex-council house. Police are investigating claims that she failed to pay enough tax and was registered at the wrong address. Rayner has denied these claims.
The Treasury Select Committee plans to question the boss of HMRC about tax scenarios similar to Rayner’s case, particularly regarding taxes owed on council houses bought under the right to buy scheme. Committee chair Harriett Baldwin emphasized the importance of providing taxpayers with the guidance they need to ensure they are compliant with tax laws.
As Rayner navigates these challenges, the spotlight remains on her actions and statements regarding housing policy and ethics.