Today’s news summary – Paper Talk
Friday’s front pages feature a variety of stories – including the latest from UK politics, royal news and the upcoming world cup.
Tax increases and spending cuts
The FT leads with the government’s consideration of £50bn worth of tax increases and spending cuts “to fill a gaping hole in the public finances.” The paper says ministers hope the measures won’t have to be implemented in full. Sources describe the economic outlook as “bleak” after they were given “weak” forecasts by the Office of Budget Responsibility.
The Daily Telegraph says an expansion of the windfall tax on energy companies is being considered as a way to “help balance the books”. The paper says Rishi Sunak is looking to increase the levy above the current 25 per cent and include renewable energy generators.
The i leads with a poll, which suggests voters trust Rishi Sunak over Sir Keir Starmer when it comes to managing the economy. The PM has a one-point lead – despite Labour being miles ahead if a general election was held.
The Times headline: “PM seeks deal to curb Channel crossings” – which says the PM is reviewing a draft immigration agreement with France in the hopes of making it “more ambitious”. It reports that he wants to include targets for how many small boats are stopped and requirements for a minimum number of French border officers patrolling beaches.
The Daily Mirror leads with an image of Ghislaine Maxwell jogging at the US jail where she is serving her 20-year sentence.
The paper features a story on the pressure on the PM over his decision to reappoint Suell Braverman, despite her quitting the Liz Truss cabinet over breaching the ministerial code. The paper says the government has no integrity. The Sun says Suella Braverman leaked “top secret plans” for a new “growth visa” when she accidentally forwarded a classified email to a stranger.
Royal news: Prince William won’t attend World Cup, and Harry’s book release date
The Sun reports Prince William – president of the FA – won’t be travelling to Qatar to watch England at the World Cup.
There had been controversy over the decision to hold the World Cup in Qatar over their human rights records. Sources tell the paper, the Prince of Wales has a “busy diary.”
Prince Harry’s book – SPARE – is reported on across the tabloids. The Metro says “Royals in de-Spare” with sources telling the paper that the Royals are “very concerned.”
The Daily Express claims the royal family will be “rocked” by the book and the Daily Mail says it “will do little to allay fears at Buckingham Palace that the estranged prince is out – once again – to try to settle perceived scores”.