Yes UK. I use OANDA, not sure if they are classed as spreadbetting but they are not DMA.
I just looked at their website.
They are similar to SB company but do CFD instead of SB, which profits are taxable on in the UK.
Their spreads are not that good.
Multicharts is OK.
If I were you I would go with SB company.
If you make money you will not have to pay any capital gains tax, providing you have another main source of income like a real job, or your own business or company.
SB is more suited to long term trading than short term, as frequent trading with SB might be an issue with revenue authorities down the road, if you start to make some nice money.
I would not worry bout that for now.
You want the best charts, best spreads, and access to market quotes if possible.
IG, and other SB companies tend to freeze their systems when extreme volatility appears. This is not what you want, as if you are on wrong side it could cost you big money, unless you have another broker account that you can hedge positions with.
With SB you do not need 20k.
Take out 10 and keep it in a fire proof box at home.
Count it now and again to get the feel of profits.
When you make 1k take it out, bring the wife out or treat the kids.
Forget about making a fortune.
Concentrate on generating income.