The DUP leader Gavin Robinson also confirms that Emma Little-Pengelly will not participate in joint engagements with O'Neill.

The prime minister did not outline a timetable, while opponents questioned the Budget's lack of detail on welfare reform.

Proposals to merge smaller councils to form larger unitary authorities were put on hold last month.

Campaigners had warned some families could face an unfair financial penalty because of delays which were not their fault.