Rayner refuses to repay severance pay after cabinet return

Conservatives had urged Rayner to return the money, arguing that departing ministers who are reappointed within three weeks do not qualify for such payments. Rayner defended her decision, stating the severance was given at the time of her departure and that she had worked in government for a significant period before her temporary exit.

Last year, Rayner faced scrutiny over her property dealings, with the prime minister's ethics adviser concluding she had breached the ministerial code. However, she stated she had been "exonerated" of deliberately seeking to avoid tax. Rayner expressed a desire to continue her work in government, particularly on building council houses and supporting local government, highlighting a £39bn investment in social and affordable housing.