Ms Lockhart, who has been a vocal advocate for ensuring Northern Ireland's needs are met in the Budget, emphasised the importance of addressing persistent challenges in health, education, agriculture, and the cost of living.

Commenting on the letter, Carla Lockhart MP said:

"As Budget Day looms, we are making no apologies for speaking up and fighting for a Budget that truly addresses the needs of Northern Ireland and my constituents in Upper Bann. It is crucial that the Government recognises the unique challenges we face and allocates funding fairly. From healthcare and education to farming and support for low-income families, we need a Budget that delivers real solutions.

We have called for a funding formula that reflects the real needs of Northern Ireland, particularly in health, education, and policing, where historic underfunding has placed significant pressure on our public services. We need to ensure our workers are supported too, by raising tax thresholds to alleviate the financial burden on low-wage earners and making work pay. 

Given that many households here rely on home heating oil, reversing the removal of Winter Fuel Payments is essential, especially with rising energy costs. We cannot abandon vulnerable people during a cost-of-living crisis. 

Agriculture remains the backbone of our economy, and it’s vital to increase support to match inflation, safeguarding the sustainability of family farms, which are crucial for food security. Likewise, Agricultural Property Relief must be maintained to protect family farms and prevent rural economies from suffering due to land concentration in the hands of large agribusinesses. 

The hospitality industry also requires urgent attention. Tax relief measures are needed to help businesses facing rising costs, and we need a fairer approach to business taxation. We are also standing up for local schools, advocating for a reconsideration of VAT on independent school fees, which would unfairly penalise ordinary working families. 

The ongoing injustice faced by WASPI women must be addressed. It is unacceptable that pension inequality continues to affect women born in the 1950s, and we have urged the Government to resolve this matter once and for all. 

Moreover, promises made to victims of state failures, including those impacted by the Horizon scandal, the Windrush generation, and the infected blood scandal, must be honoured. The Government has a duty to fulfil these commitments in a timely manner.”

Concluding Carla Lockhart MP added: "The DUP MPs will continue to press the Chancellor to ensure that this Budget delivers for Northern Ireland. The Government must honour its commitments and provide the support needed to build a fairer and more prosperous future for all.  We will keep pushing to make sure Northern Ireland's voice is heard loud and clear at Westminster."