Labour Minister Angela Rayner Accused of Breaching Ministerial Code Over Alleged Moving Assistance

Angela Rayner, the Labour minister, is under scrutiny after a formal complaint suggested she instructed her private office staff to assist with her relocation to a Whitehall property by moving furniture and cleaning the space. The complaint, submitted by Tory MP Paul Holmes, raised concerns about this conduct, warning that if confirmed, it would constitute a blatant violation of the ministerial code, which mandates that ministers must act in the public's interest and avoid any potential conflicts with their private interests.

Holmes highlighted that the ministerial code emphasizes the obligation of public officials to avoid placing themselves in a position where they could be influenced by external parties. The allegations arose in the context of broader issues within the Cabinet, as other ministers, including Foreign Secretary David Lammy and Environment Secretary Steve Reed, were also reported for possible breaches regarding the political nature of their official speeches.

Additionally, Holmes pointed out that if it is established that Rayner misused civil service resources during her move, she should be accountable by receiving a bill for the estimated costs incurred, based on private sector rates. Meanwhile, the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government clarified that logistical support was provided for the Deputy Prime Minister's official move, and private firms were employed for the task at his personal expense.