Budget 2009: 'this talk of efficiency is too little and too late'

Richard Steer, senior partner, Gleeds

Against a background of arguably the worst recession in recent memory the chancellor was a bit like a tired doctor offering an elastoplast solution for a haemorrhaging economy that has gone into shock. There is talk of increased efficiency, bringing money forward and a vague offer of help to streamline the planning process but this is too little and too late.

There is some expenditure that will cheer those involved in the green sector but little of short term benefit for our struggling industry with the only glint of hope involving enhanced expenditure for rail infrastructure and a vastly over-optimistic prediction of a modest 1.25% growth next year.

Gillian Charlesworth, director of external affairs, the RICS

The chancellor has recognised the need for assistance to the housing market as essential to helping Britain’s economic recovery. Government action to support mortgage lending should help translate buyer interest, which has picked up in recent months, into actual sales. Additional funding for HomeBuy Direct and extending the stamp duty holiday should also encourage those wishing to get on the housing ladder. Measures announced by the chancellor will help move towards a sustainable and vibrant housing market for the future.