Budget – a wasted opportunity’ – says Association of Private Client Investment Managers and Stockbrokers

"The budget was an opportunity to boost financial markets and private investment as well as boosting the Government’s tax take through the reduction of Stamp Duty/SDRT, but the Chancellor failed to show the leadership to take this tough decision.

"With over 12 million people dependent on stocks and shares and other financial instruments for their financial futures, it is vital to protect the interests of investors and the investment industry in the UK. The Chancellor has done nothing to help this vital element of the economy."