Emails sent by Rachel Reeves’s spouse will be made public later today amidst an ongoing dispute regarding her rented family residence.
This development follows the acknowledgment by the Chancellor yesterday of an “unintentional oversight” in failing to procure a license to lease out her property in Dulwich. Following Labour’s electoral triumph last summer, she and her partner decided to list their south London property – jointly owned – for sale as they relocated to No11 Downing Street.
A spokesperson from No 10 stated this afternoon: “A review of the Chancellor’s spouse’s email correspondence has revealed new information. This data has been forwarded to the Prime Minister and his independent adviser.”
Despite this, Downing Street emphasized that the Prime Minister continues to have confidence in the Chancellor and has affirmed that Ms. Reeves will present the Budget on November 26. This assurance came after Mr. Starmer voiced his support for Ms. Reeves on Wednesday evening, subsequent to her apology for the oversight in renting out the family property without the necessary license.
The Chancellor informed the PM that she and her family were unaware that a “selective license” was required in their Southwark area in London, where they leased their property for £3,200 per month upon moving to No 11.
Southwark Council mandates that individuals renting out properties in specific areas must obtain a license in advance.
Ms. Reeves stated: “Unfortunately, we were unaware of the licensing requirement and thus rented out the property without obtaining the necessary license. This was an inadvertent mistake. Upon being informed, we promptly took corrective action and have since applied for the license. I offer my sincere apologies for this oversight and I am open to addressing any inquiries.”
In response, Mr. Starmer expressed his contentment that the issue could be resolved after seeking advice from his ethics adviser. He stated: “I have consulted with my Independent Adviser on Ministerial Standards this evening.
“He has recommended that, given your inadvertent failure to obtain the appropriate license for your rental property and considering your swift corrective actions, including your apology, further investigation is unnecessary.”
The PM additionally remarked: “It is unfortunate that the requisite license was not obtained earlier, and it is commendable that you have taken the necessary steps today to rectify this. Your prompt and serious approach to this matter is evident.”
Local authorities possess the authority to compel individuals renting out residences in specific zones to secure a selective license. This measure aims to safeguard tenants from landlords offering substandard accommodations and may be implemented due to concerns about recurring anti-social behavior issues within rental properties.
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