Gogglebox stars call Angela Rayner's resignation 'tragic' as they react to shock news

It was a dramatic week in the UK, as the stars of Gogglebox were filmed as they learnt that Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner had resigned.

During the second episode of the new series, the stars sat down to watch ITV News, as Loose Women star Charlene White broke the news to thousands. On September 5, Angela Rayner resigned from her role over the stamp duty tax row.

The MP quit the government, admitting that she takes "full responsibility" after underpaying tax on a seaside flat she bought in Sussex. Bridget Phillipson and Lucy Powell will go head-to-head in the contest to replace Angela as deputy leader.

READ MORE: Bridget Phillipson and Lucy Powell to go head-to-head to replace Angela Rayner

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The Gogglebox cast had mixed opinions on the on goings, as newcomers Sara and Lara said: "She's done extraordinarily well. It's such a pity it's all come to an end. I think it's tragic."

Sisters Izzi and Ellie added: "She was a teen mum, a strong Northern woman. Seeing someone like that in a position of power is inspiring."

However, newcomers Andrew and Alfie added: "Surely the one thing you do if you're Housing Minister is make sure everything to do with your property is in place."

Fan favourite Mary added to her husband Giles: "To be honest, I'm very sorry for her. I can imagine myself getting in the same muddle."

Rayner said that she made the mistake in good faith but added: "I accept that I did not meet the highest standards in relation to my recent property purchase." She had previously said that she did not pay enough tax on the £800k property based on incorrect "advice from lawyers".

However, a conveyancer used by Rayner to buy the flat - Verrico & Associates - denied giving her tax advice and said that they were being made "scapegoats".

Shortly after Rayner's resignation, ethics watchdog Sir Laurie Magnus confirmed that she had breached ministerial code.

The reaction came on the second episode of the new Gogglebox series, in which fans have beenintroduced to five new families.

Newcomers included pals Jake (27) and Callum (31) from Glasgow, the Gordon family; Andre (49), Sarah (47) and their daughter Chee (25) from Surrey, married duo Andrew (62) and Alfie (32) from The Cotswolds, Mother and daughter-in-law, Sara (87) and Lara (58) from Yorkshire and Sisters, Rosie (68) and Susie (70) from Edinburgh.

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