Stewart RobertsonOn the budget

"There are only two types of Chancellor: those who fail and those who get out in time." Allegedly, ...

"There are only two types of Chancellor: those who fail and those who get out in time." Allegedly, this was one of Gordon Brown's favourite quotes while he occupied No 11 Downing Street. Having traded up and moved next door a little less than a year ago, it looks as if Brown will fall into the second category. At the very least, any perception of failures or mistakes under his watch will be judged by history books rather than backbenchers or - heaven forbid - voters. However, his replacement is looking more and more likely to drop into the first bracket, alongside such grudge-bearing ...