Wes Streeting received a warm reception at the Labour conference today as he lauded Angela Rayner, expressing a desire for her return. Streeting, the Health Secretary, acknowledged Rayner’s efforts in championing a fair pay deal for social care workers. He emphasized the significance of the £500 million investment earmarked for the groundbreaking “fair pay agreement,” attributing the achievement to Rayner’s firsthand experience as a care worker who rose to the position of Deputy Prime Minister.

Expressing gratitude for Rayner’s contributions, Streeting affirmed the need for her return, promising to convey this sentiment to her. The call for Rayner’s comeback follows her recent resignation as Deputy Prime Minister and Housing Secretary due to tax discrepancies related to her property in Hove. Despite the controversy surrounding her resignation, Rayner’s dedication to public service was commended by the PM’s ethics chief.

Rayner’s departure also led to her stepping down as the deputy leader of the Labour Party, prompting a leadership contest between Bridget Phillipson and Lucy Powell. Steve Reed, the current Housing Secretary, praised Rayner as a “true working-class hero.” In response to the support shown by colleagues and party members, Rayner expressed her gratitude and commitment to advocating for the working class.

Addressing her resignation, Rayner took responsibility for the tax oversight, emphasizing that it was not intentional. She highlighted the impact of the situation on her family, leading to her decision to step down. Labour leader Keir Starmer acknowledged Rayner’s continued importance within the party, expressing support through a personal letter.

Rayner, who is absent from this year’s conference, affirmed her solidarity with party members and vowed to continue fighting for the interests of working people. Streeting’s endorsement of Rayner’s return reflects a sentiment shared by many within the Labour Party.