UK Homelessness Minister Rushanara Ali resigns following report of £700 rent increase on London property

LONDON, Aug 8 — Britain’s Homelessness Minister Rushanara Ali has stepped down from her role after reports emerged that she significantly raised the rent on a property she owns in London.

In a resignation letter addressed to Prime Minister Keir Starmer, Ali said, “It is with a heavy heart that I offer you my resignation as a minister.” She previously served as the under-secretary of state for homelessness in the Labour government.

Her decision came a day after the i newspaper reported that Ali had issued eviction notices to four tenants in a London property she owns, and subsequently re-listed the home a few weeks later with the rent increased by over £700 (US$940) per month.

The revelation drew criticism from homelessness advocates and opposition MPs, many of whom said her actions made her position untenable.

Ali defended her conduct in her letter, stating: “At all times I have followed all relevant legal requirements. I believe I took my responsibilities and duties seriously, and the facts demonstrate this.”

However, she acknowledged the controversy had become a distraction: “It is clear that continuing in my role will be a distraction from the ambitious work of the government.”

Prime Minister Starmer thanked Ali for her “diligent work” in the housing ministry and highlighted her efforts to repeal the Vagrancy Act, calling it a meaningful contribution. — AFP