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The Papers: 'Devolution revolution' and 'the cost of cool'

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Andy Burnham's economic policy speech next week and the record heatwave dominate Sunday's papers.

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This story was published by BBC UK on June 28, 2026 and curated on Africa Front.

June 28, 2026

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The Papers: 'Devolution revolution' and 'the cost of cool'

Published28 June 2026

Andy Burnham - and what he might do as prime minister - features heavily in most of Sunday's papers. According to the Observer, external, he is "actively considering" a return to frontline politics for David Miliband, who was foreign secretary under Gordon Brown. With Ed Miliband also reported to be in line for a role in Burnham's Cabinet, some insiders fear the return of what's referred to as a "psychodrama" between the brothers; others say they're likely to balance each other out. A spokesman for Burnham says no jobs have been offered.

According to the Sunday Times, external, Burnham has played a part in one long-delayed government policy. The paper understands that he has signed off a revised defence investment plan which will divert cash from warships to drones. Under the headline "devolution revolution", the Sunday Mirror previews, external Burnham's own policy announcement - a speech on Monday in which he will outline an economic strategy that sends money to regional mayors. The Sunday Telegraph focuses, external on comments by Louise Haigh, a top ally of Burnham, calling for a "sharp increase in capital gains tax", and for the government to be allowed to borrow more.

The Sun on Sunday reports, external that Cabinet minister Nick Thomas Symonds has been accused of sending inappropriate text messages to a female MP. A Cabinet Office spokesperson says "no evidence of improper behaviour was found and no further action was taken".

According to the Sunday Times, external salmon farms risk being "stripped" of their organic status due to growing environmental and welfare concerns. The Soil Association will decide in October whether to walk away from the sector or stay to drive up standards. An industry spokesperson says salmon farmers are "committed to the highest standards of fish welfare and environmental responsibility".

Scotland's exit from the World Cup happened too late for the printed editions of the papers, but it is reflected on their websites. The Mail on Sunday describes, external their campaign as "miserable".

There are harsh words for England as well - despite the team finishing top of their group. The Sun calls, external their performance against Panama "one-dimensional". The Telegraph argues, external that England are largely relying upon Jude Bellingham - saying he rescued the team "yet again". The Sunday Times says, external England "must improve", otherwise they risk becoming "unstuck as the tournament gets serious".