Newspaper Round Up: 19th of February 2026

Daily Telegraph Front Page 19th of February 2026

Donald Trump urged the PM not to proceed with a deal over the Chagos Islands, arguing the Diego Garcia base is crucial for UK–US security operations in the region. He warned a handover to Mauritius would weaken Western defence. Downing Street says no decision has been taken.

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Guardian Front Page 19th of February 2026

The government plans to require platforms to remove non-consensual intimate images and deepfakes within 48 hours or face heavy fines and potential blocking in the UK. The PM will hand Ofcom stronger powers to enforce compliance, aiming to protect victims and curb AI-enabled abuse.

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i Front Page 19th of February 2026

Surrey Police appeal for witnesses to allegations of trafficking and assault linked to newly released Epstein files. The Met is reviewing claims that Andrew Mountbatten‑Windsor’s former bodyguards may hold evidence, as ministers and MPs urge him to give evidence to Parliament.

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Daily Express Front Page 19th of February 2026

A survivor of grooming abuse says her request to meet the PM has been ignored. She and others allege the national inquiry is flawed and tightly managed, breaking trust with survivors. She seeks a meeting and accountability. No 10 has not responded.

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Financial Times Front Page 19th of February 2026

Christine Lagarde is poised to exit the ECB early, allowing Macron and Merz to agree her successor. The move, expected before the French election, is intended to steady policy direction and counter the risk that rising Eurosceptic sentiment disrupts the choice.

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Metro Front Page 19th of February 2026

A drill performer convicted of robberies twice absconded, then posted a video saying “I just broke out” while taunting ministers. He faces deportation. The case has intensified scrutiny of prison security and the handling of offenders awaiting removal.

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Independent Front Page 19th of February 2026

IFS warns the chancellor’s fixation on fiscal rules is leading to poor decisions and could derail her promise of sustainable public finances. It urges relaxing self‑imposed debt targets that block borrowing for day‑to‑day spending and require debt to fall by 2029‑30.

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