Reacting to the Chancellors Spring Statement to the House of Commons, DUP MP Sammy Wilson said:
“Today’s Spring Statement is yet another example of the Labour Government’s failure to provide a clear vision for economic growth. Instead of taking the opportunity to restore business confidence and chart a new course, the Chancellor has doubled down on policies that stifle enterprise and burden working people.
The decision to raise employers’ National Insurance contributions was always destined to damage business confidence and harm our economy. The DUP has consistently warned that business is being taxed to death, yet the Government refuses to acknowledge the impact of its policies. Once again, today’s Statement offers no recognition of the damage inflicted by rising business tax bills, nor does it set out a credible plan for economic growth. This was a chance to reset - an opportunity to inspire confidence - but instead, it is yet another missed opportunity.
Rather than admit its mistakes and change course, the Government has chosen to make others pay for its failings. It is disgraceful that, instead of taking responsibility, Labour is targeting welfare recipients and pensioners to foot the bill for its ill-conceived policies.
One positive development, however, is the Chancellor’s announcement of increased defence spending. The DUP has long advocated for greater investment in defence, given the significant threats facing both the UK and the wider world. While this commitment is welcome, what remains lacking is a comprehensive plan to strengthen our defence capabilities. Given the current global instability, the Government must make this a top priority.”