Starmer Begins Major Cabinet Reshuffle After Deputy Rayner Resigns Over Tax Breach

Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has initiated a major cabinet reshuffle following the resignation of Deputy Prime Minister and Housing Secretary Angela Rayner, who stepped down after breaching the ministerial code by failing to pay the correct stamp duty on a second property. Rayner also resigned as deputy leader of the Labour Party, triggering a potential contest for that position. The reshuffle has already resulted in the removal of Commons Leader Lucy Powell and Scotland Secretary Ian Murray, and is expected to include further changes ahead of the upcoming Labour party conference. Rayner's departure is a significant setback for Starmer, who is seeking to stabilize his government amid poor polling and challenges from the right-wing Reform UK party. The prime minister's standards adviser praised Rayner's cooperation during the investigation but confirmed the breach of ministerial standards. Starmer's appointment of a new Deputy Prime Minister could influence the internal dynamics of Labour's leadership, as the roles of deputy leader and deputy prime minister have historically been distinct.