The education secretary, Bridget Phillipson, has warned parents that allowing their children to skip school is significantly damaging their future earning potential, reports The Sunday Times. Phillipson has pledged to tackle the “absence epidemic,” citing government analysis that suggests that every day missed at school can cost children hundreds of pounds in wages over their lifetime.
As part of a curriculum review initiated by Phillipson, unions are calling for the scrapping of times-table exams, claiming that they cause undue stress on pupils. The former Conservative education minister, Nick Gibb, dismissed the idea, stating that it would be “a retrograde step.”
A recent study conducted by Loughborough University on behalf of the Joseph Rowntree Foundation, which funds research into social policy, has suggested that most people believe they will need to seek private treatment for routine healthcare, as they consider they will not receive quick enough treatment through the NHS. The Observer argues that the findings suggest a lack of faith in the NHS and could threaten its future viability.
According to The Mail on Sunday, the Duke of Sussex has consulted with former aides on how he might “mastermind a return” from the US. The article, which reports that Prince Harry’s representatives declined to comment, suggests that he has contacted acquaintances from his earlier life in the UK.
The Sunday Mirror reports that a forthcoming Netflix documentary on the nurse Lucy Letby, who was convicted of killing 14 babies, will feature experts questioning her conviction. The documentary is expected to reopen a painful chapter for the families of Letby’s victims. However, neither production company ITN nor Netflix have commented.
The Sunday Express reports on fear among UK landlords that the proposed ban on outdoor smoking may result in increased violence in pub gardens and terraces. Former chairman of the Conservative party Richard Holden claims that the plan would “put bar staff in the firing line” of customers. However, Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer has stated that his intention is to reduce the burden on the NHS.
Several UK newspapers report major disappointment from fans unable to buy tickets for an Oasis concert tour. Millions experienced difficulties using the online booking system. The Daily Star Sunday dubs the situation a “shambles supernova.”
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