Angela Rayner Faces Criticism Over Lobbyist Boyfriend’s Ties

Angela Rayner, the Deputy Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, is facing renewed scrutiny following revelations about her boyfriend’s connections to a lobbying firm. Sam Tarry works for the political consultancy Henham Strategy, which recently received a £280,000 funding boost from the Labour Government, raising questions about potential conflicts of interest.

The controversy emerges as Rayner is already under fire for allegations that she saved £40,000 in stamp duty when purchasing her third home. In her previous role as an opposition leader, she frequently criticized the Conservative Party for their affiliations with lobbyists, making her current situation particularly contentious.

Lobbying Connections and Funding Boost

Tarry, a former Labour MP and Shadow Transport Minister until July 2022, has been employed by Henham Strategy, which represents various clients with interests relevant to Rayner’s portfolio in the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG). Notably, the group known as Great South West, which consists of councils and business partnerships in the South West of England, benefited from the significant funding.

Kevin Hollinrake, the Chairman of the Conservative Party, described Rayner’s situation as the “height of hypocrisy.” He criticized her for previously condemning lobbyists while allowing her partner’s professional ties to influence government decisions. Hollinrake emphasized the need for transparency, questioning whether Rayner has adequately separated herself from any issues related to her partner’s work.

Rayner had promised to eliminate the “revolving door” between ministerial roles and lobbying positions, pledging that former ministers would not engage in lobbying for at least five years after leaving office. This commitment adds weight to concerns about her current circumstances.

Clarifications and Accusations of Hypocrisy

Despite the accusations, a spokesperson for Tarry clarified that he does not engage in any lobbying activities related to MHCLG’s responsibilities. The spokesperson stated that he advises Henham Strategy on unrelated areas to avoid potential conflicts of interest. However, the connection between Tarry’s role and the funding received by Henham Strategy has prompted further questions about transparency.

While Rayner declared Tarry’s employment in her ministerial interest declaration, she did not specifically mention him or Henham Strategy. This omission has led to speculation about her commitment to the principles she espoused while in opposition.

The recent scrutiny coincides with Rayner’s purchase of an £800,000 seaside flat in Hove, East Sussex. Reports suggest she may have manipulated the tax system to save on stamp duties by asserting this property as her primary residence. Critics argue that her actions raise ethical questions regarding her leadership.

Earlier this month, Labour MP Graham Stringer suggested the optics of Rayner’s financial dealings appear troubling, potentially indicating an effort to exploit tax advantages. He did not accuse her of wrongdoing but expressed concern over public perception.

As the controversy unfolds, Rayner remains in a precarious position, with calls for a thorough inquiry into her actions and financial dealings. The Cabinet Office has stated that Rayner has adhered to the established processes for declaring potential ministerial interests, but the ongoing scrutiny suggests that her political future may be at stake.

The situation continues to evolve as Parliament reconvenes, and the implications of Rayner’s personal and professional connections draw attention from both supporters and critics.