Papers focus on possible pensioner tax relief and EU free-movement debate

Newspaper front pages are highlighting possible tax changes for pensioners and a reported widening of an investigation involving Thomas Markle, Meghan’s father. The BBC’s review also leads with debate over UK-EU freedom of movement and reports on a proposed boost to defence spending.

The Times says Chancellor John Healey is expected to raise the tax-free allowance to protect about one million low-income pensioners from income tax. It also reports that he has decided against reducing the amount of pension that can be taken as a tax-free lump sum. These are the paper’s accounts of what may be announced in the Budget, not changes already in force.

Several papers focus on Prime Minister Andy Burnham’s refusal to rule out a return to freedom of movement between the UK and the EU. The Express and Metro frame his remarks as a source of political backlash, while the Guardian says MPs in Labour’s “red wall” seats are wary. The Independent presents the debate as part of a government push to reset relations with the EU.

The Mirror says the investigation into Thomas Markle over the alleged possession of child abuse images in the Philippines could widen to the US and Mexico, and that the FBI is expected to join it. Markle denies all allegations against him. The BBC also reports that the Sun is carrying further claims from a letter sent to the Metropolitan Police by Markle’s first wife; those allegations are denied.

Other front-page stories include the Telegraph’s report of a £400,000 BBC compensation payment to a Jewish documentary maker who alleged antisemitism and bullying, and the Financial Times’ coverage of falling European luxury-goods sales amid weaker Chinese demand. The i reports a planned Budget boost for defence, while the Daily Star gives prominence to a call for wartime-style rationing to tackle sugar consumption.