Angela Rayner, who recently returned to the UK cabinet as housing secretary, has said she will not repay the £16,876 severance payment she received after leaving the government in September 2025.
The payment, known as a loss of office payment, is typically given to ministers who leave their roles. Rayner departed the previous government in September 2025, triggering the payment. However, following a cabinet reshuffle, she was reappointed to a ministerial position, leading to questions about whether she should return the money.
Rayner has stated that she will not repay the sum, arguing that she is entitled to it under the rules. The matter has drawn attention because severance payments are meant to compensate for the loss of a ministerial role, but Rayner's return to cabinet means she is again serving in government.
The payment amount is standard for a secretary of state level position. The rules do not require repayment if a former minister returns to office, though some critics have called for changes to the system.
Rayner's decision has been met with both support and criticism. Supporters say she followed the rules, while opponents argue it sets a bad precedent. The government has not commented further on the issue.
Severance payments for ministers have been a topic of debate in UK politics, especially when individuals return to government shortly after receiving them. Currently, there is no legal obligation to repay such sums.