"As you know, on Wednesday I referred myself to your independent adviser on ministerial standards, Sir Laurie Magnus, to conduct a thorough investigation into my personal financial circumstances after I became aware that it is likely I inadvertently paid the incorrect rate for stamp duty land tax (SDLT). I have always taken my responsibilities as deputy prime minister, secretary of state for housing, communities and local government, as well as a member of parliament with the utmost seriousness."
"I have long believed that people who serve the British public in government must always observe the highest standards, and while the independent adviser has concluded that I acted in good faith and with honesty and integrity throughout, I accept that I did not meet the highest standards in relation to my recent property purchase. I deeply regret my decision to not seek additional specialist tax advice given both my position as housing secretary and my complex family arrangements."
Angela Rayner referred herself to the independent adviser on ministerial standards, Sir Laurie Magnus, over a likely inadvertent incorrect stamp duty land tax payment. The independent adviser concluded she acted in good faith and with honesty and integrity, but she acknowledges she did not meet the highest standards concerning a recent property purchase. She accepts full responsibility for failing to seek specialist tax advice given her role and complex family arrangements. She emphasizes that underpaying was never intentional. She cites the intense media scrutiny and its harmful effect on her children and family as a reason for stepping down.
Read at www.theguardian.com
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