The Sunday Telegraph features a headline declaring, “It’s time for a fresh start.” In an interview, Kimi Badenoch has indicated a desire to steer the party in a new direction, distancing herself from what she describes as the errors of her predecessors. Reports suggest that her approach will involve moving away from previous Conservative policies, including the push for net zero emissions, anti-smoking measures, and the Renters' Rights Bill. A significant task for the new opposition leader will be to regain the trust of millions of voters who have shifted towards Reform UK.

The Sunday Times highlights that Badenoch has made history by becoming the first black woman to lead a major political party in Europe. The publication anticipates that she will appoint cabinet positions to loyal allies such as Andrew Griffith, Claire Coutinho, Alex Burghart, and Julia Lopez. One of her early tests will revolve around whether she will endorse the chancellor’s upcoming Budget.

Meanwhile, The Observer reports on Labour’s immediate challenge to Badenoch regarding funding for public services. The paper points out that this sets the stage for a significant political divide between the Conservatives and Labour, particularly concerning economic policies and the future of public services.

The Sunday Times also investigates the property holdings of the King and the Prince of Wales. It reveals that last year, the Duchies of Lancaster and Cornwall generated £51 million from various sources, including the armed forces, NHS, schools, mining enterprises, and large corporations. The duchies charge fees for various rights such as crossing rivers or laying cables but benefit from exemptions on corporation and capital gains taxes.

The Sunday Mirror reports on concerns regarding “mouldy hard-to-heat royal rentals.” It claims that numerous properties under the Duchy of Cornwall are failing energy standards. Residents report issues with dampness and heating inefficiencies, leading some into fuel poverty. The Duchy responded by asserting its commitment to being a responsible landlord focused on improving its properties.

In another story, The Sunday Express covers discontent over proposed shifts in military training at RAF bases. Defence leaders are cautioning against suggestions from the government’s Strategic Defence Review that could see all RAF pilots trained in the United States due to a shortage of jets in Britain. Former Defence Secretary Sir Gavin Williamson argues that this change would hinder the UK’s ability to train pilots necessary for potential conflicts.