Harry Farley,political correspondent,and
Sam Francis,political reporter
PA Media
The government’s independent ethics adviser suggested a formal investigation was not necessary
Sir Keir Starmer has dismissed calls for an investigation into Chancellor Rachel Reeves after she apologised for breaking housing rules when renting out her family home.
In a letter to the prime minister, Reeves admitted she did not obtain a “selective” rental licence required to rent out her London home and “sincerely” apologised for her “inadvertent error”.
In reply, Sir Keir said he was happy the “matter can be drawn to a close” after consulting his independent ethics adviser, who has decided not to launch an investigation.
The Conservatives have called for an investigation and said Reeves should be sacked if she is found to have broken the law.
The chancellor became aware of the problem on Wednesday when the Daily Mail, who first reported the story, approached her for a comment.
The exchange of letters between the PM and Reeves revealed they met later that evening to discuss the matter.
Reeves told Sir Keir that “regrettably” she was not aware a licence was needed to rent out her Southwark home after moving into Downing Street last year.
Reeves wrote: “This was an inadvertent mistake. As soon as it was brought to my attention, we took immediate action and have applied for the licence.
“I sincerely apologise for this error and I would be happy to answer any questions you may have.”
Sources close to the chancellor said that her letting agent had told her it would advise her if a selective licence was needed and did not do so.
In his response to her letter, the prime minister said the public expected “the highest standards” and confirmed he had consulted with Sir Laurie Magnus, the ethics adviser whose findings have previously felled two ministers.
Sir Laurie had judged that further investigation was not necessary given Reeves’ swift action and apology, Sir Keir said.
A Downing Street spokesman declined to say if Reeves had broken the ministeria
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