DUP Commits To 'Prioritise Working Families' In Next Parliament

The DUP has committed to continuing to "prioritise working families and the cost of childcare" in the next Parliament.

Party leader Gavin Robinson made the commitment at an event in Dungannon with party colleagues submitting nomination papers for the election in Upper Bann, South Down and Newry & Armagh.

Mr Robinson said: "The DUP has prioritised the needs of working families both in the Assembly and in Parliament. Just a few days ago the Education Minister Paul Givan announced a £25million package for early learning and childcare that represents the most significant investment in this area for decades. "Whilst we will continue to focus on childcare through the Assembly, the next Government must also take steps to help families right across the United Kingdom. The DUP has campaigned to see the Tax-Free Childcare Allowance increased beyond the current 20%. That would reward working parents and registered childcare providers, having a real and meaningful impact on household budgets. Unfortunately, the last Government failed to act, but our campaign will continue. We have seen some changes to child benefit thresholds and the Chancellor also committed to review child tax credit thresholds.

"Further success will only come through having a strong team of MPs at Westminster who will take their seats and who will put Northern Ireland first. It is only the DUP who have a record of delivering for Northern Ireland and delivering for everyone who lives here."