Today’s news summary – Paper Talk: Rishi Sunak survives … for now
Wednesday’s front pages lead on the drama of the Commons vote on Prime Minister Rishi Sunak’s Rwanda bill.
Rishi Sunak survives rebellion
The Daily Mail’s front page warns that whilst the PM has managed to see off this Tory rebellion, there may be trouble ahead. The paper says the prime minister might face a troublesome rebellion in the New Year.
According to The Sun, the draft legislation “scraped through.” The Times suggests that “it’s not over yet,” while The Guardian predicts weeks of chaos for the prime minister as he grapples with dissent within his party. The Daily Mirror is more direct with its headline: “Nightmare After Christmas.”
The Financial Times sees the vote as a significant win for Rishi Sunak, achieved after a day of intense persuasion. Downing Street is reportedly jubilant, especially considering the earlier ominous warnings from both sides of the party.
The Daily Telegraph notes the prime minister’s celebratory hug with Chief Whip Simon Hart on the Commons floor. “Rishi saves his bacon,” summarises The Metro, highlighting the prime minister’s charm offensive involving bacon butties.
Housing reforms
The Times reports that ministers are planning reforms, freeing local councils from the obligation to allocate greenfield land for housing needs. This change aims to appease rebellious Conservative MPs concerned about housebuilding opposition in their constituencies. The Financial Times warns that industry sources view this change as “disastrous.”
Biden criticises Israel
President Biden’s criticism of the Israeli government takes centre stage in the Financial Times, citing his remarks about Israel losing global support due to “indiscriminate bombing” in Gaza. Biden labelled Benjamin Netanyahu’s coalition government as “the most conservative” in Israel’s history.
The Guardian agrees, calling it Biden’s harshest critique since the conflict began, noting his pressure for a Palestinian state.
The Times underscores the growing isolation of the United States and Israel by highlighting their joint vote against a UN resolution calling for an immediate Gaza ceasefire.
Man United out of Champions League
On the sports front, the back pages focus on Manchester United’s Champions League exit after a one-nil defeat by Bayern Munich at Old Trafford.
The Daily Telegraph describes Man United’s exit as crashing out “with barely a whimper,” while the Times and the Mirror sum it up as “Rock Bottom.”
