Today’s news summary – Paper Talk
Several papers consider the expected announcement on the UK’s booster jab programme, with many expecting it to get the go-ahead next week. The papers also cover the government’s plans to scrap the £20-a-week uplift in Universal Credit introduced to avoid pandemic hardship. The Queen is a supporter of Black Lives Matter, according to a senior royal representative, is reported on by most of Friday’s papers.
‘Covid booster unnecessary’
The Daily Telegraph leads on comments from Prof Dame Sarah Gilbert (one of the scientists behind the Oxford vaccine) who says the Covid booster programme is not necessary for everyone in the UK.
She said a further round of jabs for some groups makes sense, but immunity from two jabs is “lasting well” for the majority of people. Adding it would be better to send third dose supplies overseas to countries with low vaccination rates.
The Times says the booster jabs are expected to go ahead next week after new evidence found the give a “several-fold increase” in vital antibodies that protect against coronavirus.
The Sun adds the measure will be one of many unveiled by Boris Johnson to “see off a winter lockdown and keep Britain open.”
‘Universal Credit scrapped’
The front pages cover the end of the £20 uplift to Universal Credit that was introduced during the pandemic.
The Guardian says new research shows ending the benefit uplift will result in increased levels of mental illness and poorer health for thousands of people.
The i covers the Tory MP backlash following the plan to scrap the benefit, with backbencher Andrew Bridgen saying it is “morally and politically unacceptable.”
‘Queen supports Black Lives Matter’
Many of the papers cover the news that according to a senior royal representative, the Queen is a supporter of Black Lives Matter.
When asked for a Channel 4 programme if the Palace supports BLM, the first black Lord-Lieutenant for London, Sir Ken Olisa, said the answer was “easily yes”.
He also revealed that he had discussed what he called the “whole issue of race” with the Royal Household – particularly after the murder of George Floyd in the US state of Minnesota last year.