Today’s news summary – Paper Talk
Friday’s front pages are dominated by prime minister Boris Johnson’s resignation – as he continues to cling onto power until the next leader is elected by the Tory party.
The i newspaper says “Downfall” as its headline on its front page with an image of Boris Johnson with his head slightly bowed and eyes closed.
The Guardian’s front page points to the ongoing row about when Boris Johnson will actually depart – “It’s ‘almost’ over” says the headline.
Whilst the Daily Mirror accuses him of “clinging on for one last party” as a source tells the paper that he has plans for a “lavish wedding bash” at Chequers. No 10 says he is motivated only “by duty”.
A major topic of conversation is when the PM will actually leave, the Daily Telegraph focuses on the warning of senior Tories that his “long goodbye” will leave the government “paralysed for months.” And the Times notes that the PM’s plans to reverse corporation tax rises and bring forward a one pence cut in income tax to next year have been shelved.
Boris Johnson’s resignation speech – ‘unapologetic’
The Financial Times calls the PM’s resignation speech “grudging and unapologetic”, the Guardian calls it “tinged with bitterness,” and the i’s editor says his “anger bubbled beneath his bonhomie.”
But for the Daily Express, the speech was “heartfelt” – and along with the Sun newspaper, they thank the PM for Brexit. In the Sun’s editorial – the paper describes him as a “flawed but giant figure in the nation’s history.”
Who will be the next PM?
The Times reports allies of potential leadership candidates have already started attacking possible rivals, suggesting it is the start of the “bitter succession contest.”
Whilst the Daily Mail says the party doesn’t have a clue who will replace Boris Johnson and they may live to regret his exit.
The i suggests the “crowded field” is likely to be cut to the final two within 13 days. And the Telegraph notes, in its editorial, that speed is of the essence.