Rayner Cleared by HMRC, Leadership Battle Intensifies for Starmer's Job

Angela Rayner has been cleared by HMRC over her tax affairs, a crucial development as the battle for the Labour leadership intensifies around a beleaguered Prime Minister Keir Starmer. This news, according to The Independent, comes amid swirling speculation about Starmer's future and potential challengers.

The investigation into Ms Rayner's stamp duty underpayment, which had previously 'clipped her wings' as she told The Guardian, found no deliberate wrongdoing. This clearance removes a significant hurdle for the former deputy Labour leader, who has not ruled out a leadership bid but insists she will not 'trigger' a contest herself.

Ms Rayner told ITV, "I am not doing deals," denying any arrangement with Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham regarding a return to Westminster. Meanwhile, Health Secretary Wes Streeting is reportedly preparing to resign and launch a challenge, with former Royal Marines officer Al Carns, an armed forces minister, stating in The New Statesman, "We do not need more slogans, strategies, press releases or commissions. We need action."

This unfolding drama leaves ordinary people watching a government in turmoil, with Labour's trade union backers reportedly pulling support for Sir Keir. The Prime Minister's deputy, David Lammy, has openly questioned whether any of Starmer's rivals can even muster the necessary 81 MP endorsements to force a formal contest, highlighting the deep divisions within the party.

Sir Keir Starmer is now fighting to avert a coup, meeting ministers and MPs as he attempts to regain control of the political agenda by introducing legislation on social housing. The coming days will reveal whether he can hold off a challenge from Wes Streeting, who needs to secure 81 MP nominations by the end of the week to formally launch his bid.