London politics LIVE: Labour meltdown as Angela Rayner prepares to join leadership fight despite PM's 'chaos' warning

Angela Rayner, Labour MP for Ashton-under-Lyne, has been cleared of deliberate tax wrongdoing by HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC), ending an investigation that could have blocked her from contesting the party leadership. Rayner stated she had acted in good faith based on expert advice and had paid all owed taxes, describing the outcome as a relief that allowed her to focus on her role. The HMRC conclusion removes a key obstacle for Rayner, who has not ruled out joining a potential leadership race against Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer. Starmer is under growing pressure as multiple Labour MPs, including Jonathan Brash, have publicly called for his resignation. Wes Streeting, the Health Secretary, is reportedly preparing to resign and launch his own leadership bid, needing support from 81 MPs to trigger a formal contest. Streeting’s allies suggest he plans to announce his intentions today, adding to the uncertainty surrounding Starmer’s future. Other potential challengers include Energy Secretary Ed Miliband and Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham, though Burnham would first need to secure a Commons seat. Starmer has begun meetings with ministers and MPs in an attempt to avert a leadership coup, but divisions within the party remain unresolved. Rayner denied any backroom deals with Burnham, insisting she was acting independently. The situation reflects deep dissatisfaction within Labour ranks, with 87 MPs already publicly urging Starmer’s resignation but failing to unite behind a single replacement. Streeting’s potential bid and Rayner’s cleared path highlight the fragmentation of support, leaving Starmer’s leadership in jeopardy. The party’s next steps will hinge on whether enough MPs coalesce behind a challenger or if Starmer can consolidate his position amid the turmoil.