Chancellor Rachel Reeves has admitted to breaking local housing regulations by failing to obtain a selective rental license when renting out her family home. The breach, uncovered by the Daily Mail, has sparked calls for an investigation and raised questions about her adherence to housing laws. Reeves has raised the matter with the Prime Minister’s Independent Ethics Adviser after it was revealed she did not apply for the necessary license.
What Happened
The incident came to light when Rachel Reeves was found to have rented out her family home without obtaining a selective rental license, required in certain areas by Southwark Council. Selective rental licenses are mandatory for property owners in specific boroughs who wish to rent out their properties. Despite being aware of the requirement, Reeves has acknowledged that she relied on the advice of a letting agent who did not inform her of the need for the license.
A spokesperson for Reeves stated: “Since becoming Chancellor, Rachel Reeves has rented out her family home through a lettings agency. She had not been made aware of the licensing requirement, but as soon as it was brought to her attention, she took immediate action and has applied for the license.”
Reeves’ Response and Transparency
Reeves has acknowledged the mistake, describing it as an “inadvertent” error, and has emphasized her transparency in addressing the matter. In line with her commitment to openness, she informed the Prime Minister, the Independent Adviser on Ministerial Standards, and the Parliamentary Commissioner for Standards as soon as the issue came to light.
The Chancellor’s quick move to apply for the necessary license following the discovery of her mistake has not eased calls for greater accountability.
Political Reactions and Calls for Investigation
The Conservative Party has called for Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer to launch a full investigation into the incident. Kemi Badenoch, a prominent Conservative MP, took to X (formerly Twitter), writing: “The Prime Minister must launch a full investigation. He once said ‘lawmakers can’t be lawbreakers’. If, as it appears, the Chancellor has broken the law, then he will have to show he has the backbone to act.”
This latest controversy involving Reeves follows a series of high-profile government figures stepping down amid scandals, including the resignation of Angela Rayner, the former deputy prime minister and housing secretary, over a dispute concerning her tax affairs.
Closing Line
This story may be updated with more information as it becomes available.
The failure of Rachel Reeves to obtain the required selective rental license has drawn attention to her conduct in office, especially as the political climate remains tense following recent scandals involving other government figures. While Reeves has taken responsibility and moved swiftly to rectify the error, the calls for a formal investigation reflect ongoing concerns about transparency and accountability within government.
