What makes for a scandal? Savvy observers in Westminster know that the public does not fixate on daily political churn. They have better things to do. The danger point for politicians is when negative stories cross the line that separates Westminster gossip from potentially career-ending moments. In other words, when an embarrassing story enters the public consciousness and becomes a scandal. It’s obvious when it happens. Ant and Dec mocking Boris Johnson for partygate on I’m a Celebrity… was one such moment. Liz Truss losing to a lettuce was another (chapeau, Daily Star). Gordon Brown calling Gillian Duffy a “bigoted woman” was a third. Dominic Cummings’ press conference in the Rose Garden. Piggate (fiercely denied).
The current row over Angela Rayner’s tax affairs is a long way from reaching this point. Labour’s deputy leader is unwavering in her insistence that she has done nothing wrong. But there is a growing sense that the story is gaining some momentum. Party press releases about sewage and the Rwanda scheme are mounting in an apparent attempt to divert attention. Time is precious because the local and mayoral elections on 2 May are only three weeks away.
Content from our partners
