Today’s news summary – Paper Talk: Brianna Ghey trial – ‘What they did will haunt us forever’
Thursday’s newspapers cover the trial of the two teenagers found guilty of murdering 16-year-old Brianna Ghey. The papers pay tribute to the murdered teen.
Elsewhere, Dame Esther Rantzen is also pictured on many front pages as she continues to call for assisted dying in the UK. Dame Esther has been diagnosed with stage four lung cancer and has said she may travel to an assisted dying clinic in Switzerland if treatments fail.
Brianna Ghey trial
The Daily Mail captures the grief of her parents, stating, “What they did to our beautiful Brianna will haunt us forever.” Meanwhile, the Daily Express reflects on the void left by her absence, noting, “Their house feels empty without her laughter,” and the Daily Mirror emphasises that “they will never stop loving her.”
February interest rate predictions
The Times speculates on the possibility of a February interest rate decrease due to lower-than-expected inflation figures, while The i newspaper predicts potential tax cuts in the coming year. According to the Financial Times, market analysts anticipate a nearly 1.5% drop in interest rates in 2024. The Daily Telegraph’s business section warns that the Bank of England’s persistence in maintaining higher interest rates could push the economy into recession.
Criminal justice bill
The Guardian raises concerns about a new criminal justice bill that includes a clause allowing facial recognition searches on the database of 50 million British driving license holders. Academics caution that the government is introducing this move “under the radar,” as it is not explicitly mentioned in the bill or explanatory notes. The Home Office has chosen not to comment on the matter.
A bus lane in Manchester, detailed by The Times, has generated over £10 million in fines for the local council from cars straying into the restricted zone.
The Financial Times features an interview with India’s Prime Minister, Narendra Modi, addressing an alleged assassination plot in the US, emphasising the depth of India-US relations and prioritising national interest in foreign affairs.
One Pint Willy
On a lighter note, Prince William’s purported nickname, “One Pint Willy,” surfaces in various publications, with The Times editorial humorously remarking that it falls short of regal monikers like ‘the Lionheart’ or ‘the Great’ and is less than ideal for the Prince of Wales.