Labour has raised concerns after the announcement of the closure of a company owned by Rishi Sunak's wife, Akshata Murty.

In December, Akshata Murty filed for the closure of her startup investment firm, Catamaran Ventures UK. A spokesperson for the prime minister's wife stated that the company's holdings would be shifted to a charity.

Labour addressed Deputy PM Oliver Dowden, presenting several inquiries. They questioned the potential repercussions of the closure on government-supported businesses and other companies in which Catamaran Ventures held a stake. Additionally, they sought clarification on tax payments to HMRC and the fulfillment of liabilities to the British taxpayer by Catamaran Ventures.

Labour urged the proper declaration of the prime minister and his wife's interests in the Ministerial Interests Register, emphasizing the importance of transparency and accountability.

A spokesperson for Ms. Murty mentioned that Catamaran Venture's holdings would be transferred to ShareGift, a charity experienced in receiving share donations. The spokesperson also highlighted Ms. Murty's intentions to allocate donations to charities focused on veterans' affairs and education.

The closure of the company was first reported in September and confirmed through an official notice in the London Gazette on 28th December.

Amidst the impending elections, Labour's correspondence regarding Ms. Murty signifies a possible attempt to involve her and her wealth in campaigning. However, Mr. McFadden refuted claims of seeking "political capital" from the issue, emphasizing the need for proper disclosure and accountability, especially considering the company's investments in taxpayer-assisted businesses.

Ms. Murty's involvement in political events, notably introducing her husband at the Conservative Party conference in October, indicates a growing engagement in the political landscape.

Previously, scrutiny surrounded the finances of Mr. Sunak and his wife when it was revealed that Ms. Murty had non-dom status, allowing her to avoid UK tax on foreign earnings. Following criticism, she pledged to start paying UK tax on overseas earnings.

Ms. Murty, whose father founded Infosys, one of India's largest companies, owns shares estimated at £700 million in the firm. Catamaran Ventures, established by the Sunaks in 2013, saw Mr. Sunak resign as a director in 2015 upon becoming an MP, after which Ms. Murty became the majority shareholder. Photo by Number 10, Wikimedia commons.