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But sadly, we’re in need of more examples of best practice. The statistics speak for themselves. Unless we take action, in less than 10 years time, up to two and a half billion people – that’s a third of today’s global population - could be vulnerable to water insecurity. Unless we take action, by 2030 – the year that we’re supposed to have achieved the Global Goals, including SDG 6 on water and sanitation – then global demand for freshwater will outstrip supply by 40%.

Once £12,500 has been reached, the personal allowance will rise automatically during the 2020s in line with inflation, rather than the National Minimum Wage as currently planned.

As co-chair of the Defence Growth Partnership - which seeks to develop the UK defence capabilities and increase defence export sales - I welcome today’s launch of the industry consultation on the refresh of defence industrial policy. I would encourage industry of all sizes, non-traditional suppliers and academia to participate in the consultation.

The government is also making further investments in digital infrastructure such as fibre broadband and 5G – vital in ensuring that businesses in Northern Ireland are well placed to take advantage of the opportunities presented by new technologies, and reap the benefits of greater connectivity.

And from April 2017, the government will also provide a new 100% business rates relief for new full-fibre infrastructure for a 5 year period.