Judith Cochrane MLA said: “This increase in the Northern Ireland budget could go towards tackling a number of issues including rising energy prices, our struggling construction sector and helping to grow our economy.
“The Executive has yet to agree what this money will be spent on but I hope that it will help the most vulnerable in our society, as well as giving a much needed boost to our economy.
“I also welcome the decision to scrap a planned fuel duty rise, particularly as Northern Ireland already faces higher fuel bills than other parts of the UK.
“There is however little in this Autumn Statement that will drastically improve the UK economy or help struggling households, especially those who are facing the consequences of welfare reform changes.
ENDS