The main antagonist in the Angela Rayner controversy revolves around the issue of stamp duty.

In the realm of British politics, a heated debate has arisen surrounding the tax arrangements of Deputy Prime Minister, Angela Rayner. Her tax setup bears a resemblance to that of a non-dom, a term used to describe individuals who reside in the UK but do not pay UK tax on their foreign income.

Rayner, who has been a vocal critic of tax avoidance, has found herself at the centre of controversy. She referred herself to the independent advisor on ministerial standards following a property purchase that has raised questions about her tax practices. The transaction is believed to have resulted in a £40,000 tax dodge.

The Labour Party, led by Keir Starmer, has defended Rayner, citing her working-class background as a key factor. Starmer stood by her at Prime Minister's Questions, praising her for her commitment to the working class. However, this defence has not gone unchallenged. Alys Denby, an opinion and features writer for City AM, has criticised the Labour Party's stance, arguing that they should focus on the tax issue instead of her background.

Denby's article highlights the hypocrisy in the Labour Party's defence of Rayner's tax avoidance, particularly given the party's historical stance against such practices. Denby's criticism comes at a time when the UK is grappling with the issue of stamp duty, a tax that many consider the worst on the statute book.

Stamp duty is said to prevent people from moving to more economically productive areas and traps them in homes that no longer suit their needs. It reduces transactions, dampens housebuilding, and stands in the way of aspiration. Rayner's successor, who aims to build 1.5 million homes as promised, might consider abolishing stamp duty to achieve this goal.

Meanwhile, the tax affairs of Nadhim Zahawi, a different individual, have also been under scrutiny. Zahawi made a tax mistake in his returns, over a higher sum compared to Rayner. However, he made greater efforts to hide his tax mistake compared to Rayner, a fact that has added fuel to the ongoing debate.

Rayner's catchphrase during the Conservative government was "one rule for them, another for everyone else". The current situation has raised questions about whether this sentiment still rings true in the Labour Party. As the debate continues, it is clear that the issue of tax fairness remains a contentious one in British politics.

The main antagonist in the Angela Rayner controversy revolves around the issue of stamp duty.