Monday’s UK newspapers feature Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer prominently on their front pages, covering both a domestic policy shift and the escalating international crisis in the Middle East.
Starmer’s “Full Retreat” on Grooming Gangs Inquiry
Several papers lead with Sir Keir Starmer’s announcement of a national statutory inquiry into grooming gangs in England and Wales. The Daily Mail describes the decision as a “full retreat,” noting Starmer had previously resisted calls for such an inquiry.
This change of direction follows Prime Minister Starmer’s acceptance of recommendations from an audit conducted by Baroness Louise Casey. Initially, Baroness Casey did not believe a new inquiry was needed, but after reviewing evidence, she concluded a national inquiry is now required. Starmer stated he had read her report thoroughly and agreed with her findings, calling the decision the “right thing to do.”
The inquiry is set to be statutory under the Inquiries Act, giving it powers to compel witnesses and evidence. A senior government source indicated it will coordinate targeted local investigations, which will also have compelling powers, even if local authorities are resistant. Setting up the inquiry is expected to take some time. Home Secretary Yvette Cooper is anticipated to make a statement on Monday, coinciding with the publication of Baroness Casey’s full report.
The issue gained prominence earlier this year, partly amplified by tech billionaire Elon Musk’s public criticism of Starmer for not initiating an inquiry. Past high-profile cases in towns like Rotherham and Rochdale, involving groups convicted of abusing young girls, have also underscored the debate.
The decision has drawn strong political reactions. The Daily Express joins coverage of Starmer’s policy change and quotes Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch, who called for Sir Keir to apologise for the delay. Badenoch stated she had been advocating for an inquiry since January and criticised Starmer for “six wasted months,” suggesting he relies on reports for his views. Reform UK leader Nigel Farage welcomed the move as a “welcome U-turn,” expressing hope the statutory inquiry will expose establishment failings and not be a “whitewash,” stressing the importance of justice for victims and perpetrators.
Middle East Crisis Dominates Global News
The escalating conflict between Israel and Iran is a major focus across numerous newspapers. The Daily Mirror reports on the continued tensions, labelling it a “World crisis” and noting Sir Keir Starmer is joining world leaders at a G7 summit in Canada where calls will be made for both countries not to deepen the conflict.
The Guardian also highlights the G7 summit’s focus on the crisis, reporting that member countries will call for a ceasefire. A large image in the paper illustrates the “human cost,” showing rescue workers helping a woman and her dog flee a damaged building in Israel. The Financial Times comments on the devastating impact of reciprocal missile strikes on residential areas.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu features on the front of the Metro, quoted warning Iran that they will “pay a heavy price” for civilian deaths in their strikes. An accompanying image shows Israelis huddling in a bomb shelter. The i Paper reports that the RAF is on standby to defend Israel, citing fears that British forces could be “dragged into Middle East war,” although the prime minister previously described the deployment as “contingency support across the region.”
US Involvement and Trump’s Role
US President Donald Trump’s comments and actions regarding the conflict are covered by several papers. The Daily Telegraph quotes “American officials” revealing Trump vetoed an Israeli plan to kill Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khameini, with one senior US administration official quoted as saying such action is “not even talking about going after the political leadership.”
The Times highlights Trump’s threat to use the “full might” of the US if they are drawn into the conflict, displaying an image of a large blaze at Iran’s Mashhad airport. The Guardian features Trump’s claims posted on social media that he is working behind the scenes for peace, stating, “We will have peace soon.” The Sun reports on chaotic scenes in Tehran, showing a traffic jam as thousands allegedly tried to flee, while the Guardian describes residents rushing to buy food amid Israeli bombings.
Other Notable Headlines
Beyond these major stories, other headlines appearing on front pages include:
MI6 Chief: The appointment of Blaise Metreweli as the first female chief of MI6 is noted as a “historical moment” by the Financial Times and covered by the Daily Telegraph, which mentions her past as an Oxford-Cambridge Boat Race rower.
BBC Probe: The Sun reports on an alleged “bullying probe” at BBC Breakfast, claiming a feud between presenters Charlie Stayt and Naga Munchetty and accusing a boss of “tyrannical behaviour.” The BBC stated it would not comment on individual HR issues.
UK Heatwave: The Daily Star forecasts Britain is set for temperatures up to 33C in the coming week, with hot weather drifting from Spain.
Tennis Triumph: The Daily Telegraph features German tennis player Tatjana Maria winning at Queen’s Club, calling it “the mother of all victories” for the 37-year-old mother of two. The i Paper notes she “rolled back the years,” and The Times reports her desire to play doubles with her older daughter until she is 40.
- Royal Photo: The Daily Express also featured a photograph of the Prince of Wales with his children, released for Father’s Day.
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These headlines reflect a busy news cycle covering significant political shifts, international crises, and other notable events.
