There seems to be some disappointment that everyone is not feeling better off.

To put this into context, the country has yet to recover from a major economic slump, excessive public spending and, whilst falling, a massive ongoing deficit. Growth coupled with continued reduced spending has to continue for some years yet and tough choices need to be made.

The Budget attempts to get UK plc moving and, contrary to the doommongers, we have not suffered Greek-style austerity – witness record sales of cars, mobile phones and electronic devices.

Ms Phillips’ comparison of the restriction of benefits to two children to China’s imposed one-child policy is banal and egregious. State support for two children is moderate and sensible. Expecting the taxpayer to give open-cheque support to unlimited children, either to parents in work or especially on benefits, is not and has been spectacularly abused in many cases.

If you want numerous children you, not the taxpayer, should pay for the privilege, a view shared by everyone I know.

G Howard, Lower Marsh Road, Warminster.