Arabic version: المملكة المتحدة تواجه موجة حر قياسية وضرائب عطلات محتملة

A heatwave is set to break the spring record in the UK, as bank holiday temperatures are on course to hit 33C. According to BBC News, the UK will see hotter temperatures than parts of Africa and the Mediterranean as hot and humid air pushes across north-west Europe.

In a related development, families planning vacations to popular tourist destinations in the UK may be subjected to a holiday tax. The Daily Telegraph reports that as many as 10 of England’s 14 regional mayors are considering implementing “overnight visitor levies” to help struggling councils. This could potentially add as much as £300 to the cost of an average family getaway.

Additionally, Greater Manchester mayor Andy Burnham could bring in a land value tax if he becomes the next PM. The Daily Mail indicates that Burnham believes land is “undertaxed” and is vowing to overhaul the council tax system and introduce a new land value levy.

In economic news, the FT Weekend highlights that bond markets have had their best week in two and a half years after Burnham vowed to stick to the UK’s fiscal rules. Analysts attribute this positive trend to lower than expected inflation and a decline in oil prices, which has made it less likely that the Bank of England will raise interest rates quickly.

The Times emphasizes a government review warning of potential “economic catastrophe” as young adults “rewired” by smartphones are trapped in worklessness. The report advises businesses to adapt to the needs of this “anxious generation” by offering more work flexibility and mental health support.

Finally, the Independent reports on UK forces using the London tube platforms for drills to simulate “deep strike” operations against Russia. This comes as one general warns the UK must be prepared for a possible real-world Kremlin conflict within three years.