Angela Rayner’s new beachfront residence in Hove was recently defaced with offensive graffiti, accusing her of tax evasion. The £800k apartment was targeted with messages branding her as a “Tax Evader,” although Rayner was not present during the incident.
The vandalism included graffiti reading “Tax Evasion” and “Bitch” on the walls outside Rayner’s apartment, with similar messages found on hoardings facing her balcony. Additional graffiti was spotted further down the street outside a luxury apartment previously owned by Pink Floyd’s Dave Gilmour.
Keir Starmer condemned the vandalism, labeling it as “appalling” for MPs to have their private residences attacked. Local residents expressed shock and disapproval at the vandalism, with one resident expressing hope that the perpetrators would be caught with potential CCTV evidence.
A spokesperson for Angela Rayner denounced the vandalism as unjustifiable and unacceptable, emphasizing that neither Rayner nor her neighbors should be subjected to such harassment. The incident occurred as Rayner faces scrutiny over underpaying tax on her seaside property.
In a recent interview, Rayner admitted to receiving incorrect legal advice, leading to potential tax savings when purchasing the property. She expressed regret over the error and disclosed discussions about potential resignation with her family. Rayner has taken steps to rectify the situation by referring herself to the Prime Minister’s independent adviser on ministerial interests and committing to repay any outstanding tax.
Chancellor Rachel Reeves voiced support for Rayner, acknowledging the mistake and highlighting Rayner’s efforts to address the tax issue with HMRC. Reeves emphasized the importance of paying the correct amount of tax and acknowledged the challenges Rayner faces, particularly regarding her disabled son.
The Deputy Prime Minister’s stamp duty situation received official clarification on Wednesday morning, indicating ongoing efforts to resolve the tax discrepancies.