Press debate over stamp duty cut

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The government's decision to raise the threshold of stamp duty makes the morning papers.

The Sun's offering is: "Stamp duty joy as tax is axed" and the most positive of the headlines.

But the Daily Telegraph highlights the criticism it has attracted: "Stamp duty cut doomed to fail" is its headline, on the story that is the lead for most.

The Independent says things were not helped by the forecast that Britain is about to slide into recession.

John McCain's running mate, Sarah Palin, is facing what the Times calls a "stream of fresh revelations".

One of them is the background of her daughter's boyfriend. Bristol Palin is pregnant with Levi Johnston's child.

But, according to the Telegraph, his page on social networking site MySpace declares: "I don't want kids".

Allegations refuted

The Daily Express calls Manchester City's new owner, Dr Sulaiman Al-Fahim, the Donald Trump of Abu Dhabi - he is also a member of its ruling family.

The Times says it has been passed a two-page note from a close friend of the British woman accused of having sex on a beach in Dubai.

The note attempts to counter reports alleging that Michelle Palmer insulted a policeman and threw a shoe at him.

The main story for the Express is that dentists from Hungary are to begin touring Britain, setting up surgeries in inflatable tents.

It says they plan to offer their services at a third of UK costs.

Bean counting

A survey suggests that most newlywed couples hate their wedding presents.

The worst five, according to the Daily Mail, are personalised bath robes, salt and pepper pots, candlesticks, photo frames and plates.

The Telegraph reports that sales of baked beans have risen by 12% over the past year, perhaps as a result of the credit crunch.

The Daily Mirror reminds readers that it counts as one of our five-a-day portions of fruit and veg.