UK Heatwave, Labour Defence Plan, and Religious Service Study Dominate UK Front Pages

Soaring temperatures across parts of the UK and western Europe feature widely in all of the front pages. With temperatures expected to reach at least 38C in South East England today, the Guardian, citing analysis published by ClimaMeter, suggests that climate change has added between two and four degrees to this current heatwave. The Sun reports thousands of pupils and teachers are skipping school to enjoy the weather, with animals at a Somerset zoo given ice lollies. There have also been soaring sales of ice cream makers, barbecues, and fans. The Telegraph states Andy Burnham wants to increase the Ministry of Defence's budget beyond the £13.5bn offered in Sir Keir Starmer's plan, potentially leading to a showdown between the two. The Financial Times quotes officials saying Sir Keir views the plan as a core part of his legacy. The Daily Mail says business leaders are against Ed Miliband being appointed chancellor due to concerns over his economic policies. The Times reports a study showing church services can activate the body's natural pain relief system, increasing pain tolerance and social connection among attendees.