Papers ponder downfall of BP boss

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The front pages focus on the resignation of Lord Browne, chief executive of BP, after he admitted lying in court about his private life.

The Independent says his departure came after a "torrid case of sex, lies and perjury".

The Daily Telegraph says the seeds of Lord Browne's demise were sown 30 years ago when he chose to conceal his homosexuality from rest of the oil industry.

And it shows that no-one, especially Britain's most admired businessman, can lie under oath, the Guardian comments.

'Anointed rival'

The papers also mull over Tony Blair's plans to announce his departure date from office next week.

His warm words about likely successor, Gordon Brown, were, the Times says, an attempt to win back crucial election votes from the Scottish Nationalists.

The Daily Mail is more scathing, saying the Prime Minister finally "surrendered to the inevitable by anointing his long-term rival".

But the Sun insists the chancellor is not taking his promotion for granted.

'Serene majesty'

A new portrait of the Queen by American celebrity photographer Annie Leibovitz makes headlines too.

The shot, taken at Buckingham Palace, is simply "stunning", says the Sun.

The Daily Express, meanwhile, sees "composed contemplation" in the Queen's face and says she "reflects the serene majesty of her mother".

While the Daily Mirror points out that Leibovitz is best known for her image of a naked John Lennon, cuddling up to Yoko Ono, just hours before he was murdered.

'Passion and fervour'

Finally, the papers hail the success of Liverpool who reached the Champions League final by beating Chelsea in a penalty shoot out.

The match was one of "unbearable tension", the Times says, ending in "the cruellest of finishes".

The Daily Mirror believes "passion is Liverpool's 12th man", remarking on the "fervour" of their supporters.

And the Daily Mail says the chanting crowds at Anfield were evidence of "England's tribal island race".