Angela Rayner rejects claims she broke rules on donations

Angela Rayner acknowledged that some voters are concerned about the donations received by her and other government officials. However, she believes that banning these gifts entirely would necessitate a broader discussion on political funding.

The UK's deputy prime minister firmly denied accusations that she failed to properly report donations, including a stay during a vacation in New York. She asserted that she had fulfilled all necessary requirements.

Her remarks were made as the Labour Party meets for its first annual conference following their election victory. Although intended as a festive occasion, the event has faced scrutiny regarding contributions made to high-ranking government officials, including outfits provided for both Rayner and Prime Minister Keir Starmer.

Last Friday, it was revealed that government ministers will stop accepting clothing as gifts. This decision comes in light of the recent scandal involving Labour peer Waheed Alli, who had been funding Keir Starmer's work wardrobe and providing clothes for his wife, Victoria, which were not disclosed at first.

It has come to light that Rayner and Rachel Reeves, the chancellor, have also received clothing.

Rayner spoke on BBC1's Sunday with Laura Kuenssberg, expressing her understanding of the public's frustration, especially given the current situation. She acknowledged that contributions for gifts, hospitality, and financial donations have been part of the political landscape for many years.

“Anyone can search online to find out what donations have been made, and having that openness is crucial. I understand why people are frustrated and upset.”

"I believe the openness is present for everyone to notice. There’s currently a nationwide discussion on how we finance political activities, and I understand that some individuals feel dissatisfied with the situation. However, we have a system in place that requires any donations received to be reported, and these regulations must be enforced equally for everyone involved."

"I believe this is accurate because it allows everyone to observe where donations have come from and how they might impact decisions, promoting a sense of transparency."

She rejected any allegations of misconduct regarding her stay in a New York apartment that belongs to Alli during her vacation. She stated, "I don't think I violated any regulations. I had access to the apartment and made it clear that I was using it."

Honestly, I believe I was too open about my situation, but I felt it was necessary, even though it was a personal holiday. This friend had previously supported me with a donation for my campaign as deputy leader.

In an earlier interview with Sky News, Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson explained that she had received contributions for her 40th birthday celebration and another gathering because these events took place in a professional setting.

She mentioned, "We are able to have this discussion because my colleagues have adhered to the guidelines. I have also complied with them. I've detailed in the register of interests the purpose of the donations, who they came from, and that information is available for everyone to view."

The controversy is still a major topic in numerous newspapers. The Mail on Sunday, for instance, showcased a prominent image on its front page of Starmer and David Lammy, the foreign secretary, alongside Starmer's chief of staff, Sue Gray, taken at Tottenham's stadium during their game against Arsenal last weekend.

Starmer has been a devoted supporter of Arsenal for a long time and has mentioned that he understands the need for corporate boxes to save on security costs if he were to sit in the audience.

In a related issue, there have been some negative remarks coming from within the government directed at Gray, accusing him of being both politically inexperienced and overly controlling. However, Cabinet ministers are adamant behind closed doors that these claims are false and that the operations at Downing Street are functioning effectively.

When questioned on this matter, Rayner responded, "I don't believe that Sue Gray is involved in any problem, and I reject the exaggerated portrayal of how things are operating in No 10."

She mentioned, "I work at No 10. I arrive every morning at 8:30, and that's not what I observe. I don’t see the exaggerated image of us all competing for luxurious homes or constantly clashing with one another."

Nevertheless, it appears that the ongoing controversies might be impacting the government’s approval ratings. A survey conducted by YouGov for the Times revealed that 53% of voters believe Starmer is not performing well as prime minister, while only 34% feel he is doing a good job.