MALVERN'S MP has voiced her support for the deal between the Democratic Unionist Party (DUP) and the minority Conservative government.

It was announced earlier today that a confidence and supply agreement had been reached that will see the 10 DUP MPs back the Tories in key Commons votes.

The deal comes two weeks after the general election resulted in a hung parliament, which led to uncertainty that a Tory minority government would be able to get key votes through the commons.

The deal ensures the DUP will support the Conservative Government on crucial votes including the Queen’s Speech, the budget, Brexit and national security legislation.

But the agreement has come under fire from critics, who have highlighted the DUP’s traditionally socially conservative stance on issues such as gay marriage and abortion, and that the deal could undermine attempts to restore power-sharing government in Northern Ireland.

Harriett Baldwin, West Worcestershire MP, said: “I am pleased that the Conservatives secured the greatest number of votes and the greatest number of seats in the House of Commons at the general election.

"However, we are in the position where we do not hold a clear majority so it is right that we continue to work with our friends and allies such as those in the Democratic Unionist Party.

“Our two parties have enjoyed a strong relationship over many years and this gives us the confidence to believe that we will be able to work together in the interest of the whole United Kingdom.

“Negotiations have now concluded between the two parties and I am pleased that we are able to move forward towards delivering on the Queen’s Speech and our legislative agenda.”

But Councillor Joy Squires, who stood as a Labour parliamentary candidate in the region at the election earlier this month, said: “This is a grubby deal designed to help Theresa May cling to power.

“She has used £1 billion of taxpayers money to keep her job.

“This discredits her further as Prime Minister and shows that the Tories will go to any lengths to survive politically.

“If the election told us anything it is that the country is crying out for change.

“Thanks to the Tories, what we have got instead is the worst sort of politics at play, based on narrow party self-interest and backroom deals.”