I am an individual in the UK who recently went through a challenging personal circumstance, one that has underscored a discriminatory situation within our country's housing and tax system. After ending a six-year relationship with my cohabiting partner, I faced the arduous task of buying out the house we had jointly owned. Despite already paying the stamp duty once when we purchased the property together, I was compelled to pay it again when I bought him out, simply because we were neither married nor in a civil partnership. 

The stamp duty is significant for anyone trying to navigate the financial complexities of a breakup while also attempting to retain their assets. What adds insult to injury is the discriminatory nature of this rule. According to The Law Society, 3.3 million people were cohabiting in the UK in 2020, and this figure is only likely to grow. Thus, it is crucial that tax laws evolve to recognise the reality of modern relationships, treating all taxpayers with equity and fairness.

I call upon our policy makers to eliminate the stamp duty for unmarried partners who are buying out shared property. These laws should not aggravate an already distressing situation but must consider the emotions and financial challenges faced by millions of people in circumstances like mine. Let's push towards amending this regulation and ensure our housing and tax systems do not disproportionately impact those who are not married or in a civil partnership. Please sign this petition to show your support for this critical change.