Police-Cleared Angela Rayner Faces Renewed Hypocrisy Claims from James Cleverly

London – Conservative MP James Cleverly has publicly accused Labour Deputy Leader Angela Rayner of hypocrisy, reigniting scrutiny over her past tax affairs. The criticism, delivered via social media, comes over a year after police concluded an investigation into Rayner's financial dealings without taking further action. Cleverly's statement suggests a political motive, linking Rayner's previous demands for ministerial resignations over tax issues to her own handling of similar allegations.

In a direct post, James Cleverly stated:

"Angela Rayner demanded ministerial resignation over tax affairs. We can now see why she dodged questions on this issue all Summer. Voters hate hypocrisy."

The allegations against Ms. Rayner, which gained prominence in early 2024, centered on whether she paid the correct amount of capital gains tax on the 2007 sale of her former council house. Questions were also raised regarding her electoral registration and the designation of her primary residence. Greater Manchester Police, following a thorough investigation, announced in May 2024 that no further action would be taken, effectively clearing her of any wrongdoing.

Despite the police clearance, Ms. Rayner faced intense political pressure and media questioning throughout the summer of 2024 regarding the specifics of her tax arrangements. During this period, she maintained her innocence and asserted that she had always acted within the rules. Her public statements included a commitment to resign if found to have broken any laws.

Ms. Rayner has a documented history of demanding accountability from other politicians, including calls for resignations related to financial probity. Notably, she urged Rishi Sunak to "come clean" over his wife's non-domicile tax status in April 2022. This background forms the basis of Cleverly's current accusation of hypocrisy, suggesting a double standard in her approach to political ethics. The renewed focus on these past events indicates ongoing political maneuvering as parties prepare for future electoral contests.