The majority of voters have backed Gordon Brown's budget but doubt it will cure the NHS's ills.

A survey carried out by YouGov released on Friday found 62 per cent of voters thought the chancellors statement was right and nearly tow-thirds thought it was fair.

In the personality stakes Brown remains one of the most popular chancellors since the war.

Some 62 per cent of those surveyed believed he is "doing a good job".

The public is sceptical that the massive cash injection into the NHS will improve the levels of care. Only 20 per cent thought it would make any difference.

Professor Anthony King of Essex University believed Brown had won in the short-term but things could change when the tax hikes kick in next April.

"Mr Brown's gamble has paid off so far - but all his bets have not yet been called in," he said.