A conveyancing firm used by Angela Rayner has denied giving her tax advice on a property purchase where she later admitted underpaying stamp duty. The Deputy Prime Minister claimed "advice from lawyers" led to her paying too little tax when she bought the flat in Hove this year.
Rayner said a conveyancer and two trust law experts had all suggested the stamp duty amount she paid was correct. Sources close to her indicated she acted on the advice she received at the time.
Firm denies responsibility
The conveyancing firm Verrico and Associates told media on Thursday that its lawyers "never" gave Rayner tax advice and were being made "scapegoats". Managing director Joanna Verrico said: "We're not qualified to give advice on trust and tax matters and we advise clients to seek expert advice on these."
Meanwhile, Sir Keir Starmer declined to say whether he would sack his deputy if she is found to have broken the ministerial code. The Prime Minister said "of course" he will act on the findings of his independent standards adviser.
Investigation continues
Sir Laurie Magnus is examining whether Rayner, who also serves as Housing Secretary, broke ministerial rules. Starmer would not be drawn on whether he would dismiss his deputy if the investigation concludes a breach occurred.
Sources used: "PA Media" Note: This article has been edited with the help of Artificial Intelligence.
