Angela Rayner’s newly acquired seaside residence in Hove became the target of vandalism overnight. The £800k seafront flat was defaced with offensive graffiti labeling her as a “Tax Evader.” Ms. Rayner was reportedly not present at the property during the incident.
Messages such as “Tax Evader Rayner” and “Tax Evasion” were found spray-painted on the walls outside her apartment, with additional graffiti facing her balcony window. Further down the street, near a luxury apartment previously owned by Pink Floyd’s Dave Gilmour, two more messages were spotted.
Keir Starmer condemned the vandalism, describing it as “appalling” for private homes of MPs to be targeted. Residents in the vicinity expressed shock and disapproval at the senseless act of vandalism, with one resident calling it disgraceful and hoping for the culprits to be apprehended.
A spokesperson for Angela Rayner denounced the vandalism as unjustifiable and emphasized that neither she nor her neighbors should endure harassment and intimidation. The incident occurred as Ms. Rayner faces scrutiny over her tax affairs related to the property.
In a recent interview, the Deputy Prime Minister admitted to underpaying tax on the seaside flat due to incorrect legal advice, potentially saving around £40,000 on stamp duty. Despite expressing regret over the error and contemplating resignation, she has taken steps to rectify the situation by self-referring to the Prime Minister’s independent adviser on ministerial interests and committing to repay any owed tax to HMRC.
Rachel Reeves, the Chancellor, voiced her support for Angela Rayner, acknowledging the mistake made in the stamp duty payment and her efforts to correct it. Reeves highlighted the challenging family circumstances faced by Rayner, particularly concerning her disabled son, while underscoring the importance of paying the correct amount of tax.
The definitive advice regarding the stamp duty issue was received on Wednesday morning.