DUP-Tory deal secures extra spending in Northern Ireland

[T_i_B]

So much for the Tories claim about there not being a "magic money tree". No extra money for nurses or firefighters pay though!

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-northern-ireland-40402352

A deal between the Conservatives and the Democratic Unionist Party (DUP) includes an extra £1bn in public spending for Northern Ireland.

DUP leader Arlene Foster said she was "delighted" with the package, which is part of an agreement to prop up Theresa May's minority government. The PM sought the DUP's support after losing her majority in the election.

Sinn Féin said the deal was a "blank cheque for a Tory Brexit" but any money coming to NI was a "good thing".

Under the "supply and confidence" arrangement, the DUP guarantees that its 10 MPs will vote with the government on the Queen's Speech, the Budget, and legislation relating to Brexit and national security.

[muriel_volestrangler]

1. Government agrees to fund abortions in England for Northern Ireland women to avert Commons defeat

(just as I was posting the earlier story, the concession was announced)

---snip---

In the Commons Philip Hammond, the chancellor, has just announced that the government will fund abortions for women coming to have them in England from Northern Ireland (where access to abortion is highly restricted).

He said the details would be set out in a letter to MPs from Justine Greening, the minister for women and equalities (as well as education secretary).

This should avert the prospect of the government being defeated. The concession may persuade Stella Creasy to withdraw her amendment entirely.

https://www.theguardian.com/politics/blog/live/2017/jun/29/rupert-murdoch-to-learn-bradleys-preliminary-decision-on-his-takeover-bid-for-sky-politics-live?page=with:block-5954f616e4b021a5988a757c#block-5954f616e4b021a5988a757c

One in the eye for the DUP, anyway.

(Earlier story: https://www.theguardian.com/world/2017/jun/29/rebel-tories-could-back-northern-ireland-abortion-amendment )

[T_i_B]

2. Congratulations to Stella Creasy & Layla Moran!

[LeftishBrit]

3. Seconded!