Isle of Man Cabinet Office News

Isle of Man recognised for international tax standards

Tue, 12 Mar 2019 16:43:45 GMT

The Isle of Man has been removed from annex II of the Economic and Financial Affairs Council's (ECOFIN) non-cooperative jurisdictions for tax purposes. This follows a long programme of work and proactive engagement. The Isle of Man Government welcomes this positive recognition of the Island's ongoing commitment to international standards.

In December 2017 the Isle of Man was placed in annex II by the EU Code of Conduct Group as there were concerns that the Island did not have legal substance requirements for entities doing business in or through the jurisdiction.

In response the Isle of Man proactively engaged with the Group and worked closely with fellow Crown Dependencies Jersey and Guernsey to develop proposals to address the concerns raised. This resulted in new legislation which was introduced in December 2018.

The Group has now reviewed the Isle of Man’s work over the past year and have removed the Island from annex II.

Chief Minister Howard Quayle MHK said:

'We welcome this positive endorsement of our commitment and proactive engagement with international standards. The government has engaged at every stage to ensure any concerns expressed by the Group were addressed.

'The Isle of Man is a well-regulated transparent jurisdiction that takes its international responsibilities extremely seriously.

'We have a positive role to play in today’s global economy and will continue to be a responsible and open member of the international community at the forefront of international standards and have a continued commitment to tax transparency and cooperation.'

European Union Settlement Scheme to go live on 30 March

Fri, 08 Mar 2019 14:40:33 GMT

The Isle of Man European Union Settlement Scheme will go live on 30 March 2019.

The Scheme sets out the basis on which a European Economic Area (EEA) citizen and their family members, and the family members of a qualifying British citizen, will, if they apply under it, be granted an immigration status of indefinite leave to enter or remain or limited leave to enter or remain. There is no application fee for this immigration status.

The application form together with guidance notes will be available to download from the Isle of Man Government website, and also from the Isle of Man Immigration Office, from 30 March 2019.

Applications should be submitted to the Isle of Man Immigration Office by post or in person and follow the same format in which other immigration applications are currently made in the Isle of Man. The Isle of Man Immigration Service aim to process applications within 28 business days.

Successful applicants will receive a physical document (status letter) confirming their grant of leave under appendix EU to the Isle of Man Immigration Rules.

UK scheme

The Isle of Man Immigration Service has progressed with the UK Home Office the provision for EEA nationals who are resident in the Isle of Man to make an application for their immigration status to the UK scheme if they wish. Eligible applicants can make an application from 9 April 2019.

The UK scheme will accept eligible applications from EEA nationals residing in the Isle of Man, their family members, and the family members of a qualifying British citizen, and if successful will be granted an immigration status of either indefinite leave to enter or limited leave to enter. There is no application fee for this immigration status.

Successful applicants will be given proof of their status through a UK online service confirming their grant of leave under appendix EU to the UK’s Immigration Rules.

Urgent statement by the Chief Minister to the House of Keys

Tue, 05 Mar 2019 12:27:02 GMT

The Chief Minister, Hon. Howard Quayle MHK has this morning delivered an urgent statement to the House of Keys:

Mr Speaker, Honourable Members,

Thank you for allowing me the opportunity to address the house at such short notice today.

On Sunday night I left for London so that I could speak to contacts in Westminster regarding proposed amendments to the United Kingdom's Financial Services (Implementation of Legislation) Bill, which were, in the opinion of our Government, wholly unconstitutional. The bill was ultimately deferred by the UK Government late yesterday morning, thereby avoiding the risk of the UK's democratically elected Parliament legislating for the Isle of Man without our consent.

As I said in the joint statement with Jersey and Guernsey yesterday, this deferral provides us with the opportunity to undertake real and meaningful engagement with the UK Government regarding public registers.

As a crown dependency along with Jersey and Guernsey, we are not represented in the UK Parliament. It is therefore a long standing convention that the UK does not legislate on domestic matters for crown dependencies.

The amendments proposed without consultation with us and specifically without our consent were unconstitutional, unworkable and in the opinion of our Government unenforceable. If passed, we may have been left with no alternative but to challenge the legislative provisions before the Courts.

Honourable Members, as a Government we do wholeheartedly endorse the aims of the MPs who proposed and supported the amendments to the Bill in the House of Commons yesterday. These were designed to tackle money laundering and financial crime on a global scale. Every day law enforcement authorities in the Island work with international partners with the aim of robustly tackling money laundering and related financial crime. Over the past few years this Government has invested millions of pounds in developing and improving our ability to join the fight in this arena. Indeed just a few weeks ago, further money was pledged in the budget for asset recovery, financial intelligence and economic crime investigation. Our commitment is clear and continuing.

On Sunday, I forwarded you a copy of the letter that I sent to a number of MPs. The letter showed that the issues around the introduction of public beneficial ownership registers are complex and that currently there is an absence of global standards in this area.

We recognise that the UK has taken its decision to adopt and implement a form of public register. However, currently within EU member states, the adoption of legislation to introduce and commit to public registers, in line with the 5th Money Laundering Directive, has been markedly slow. The majority of EU countries are a long way from having working public registers of beneficial ownership.

Therefore, there is no EU Member State or internationally recognised model of public register which provides the required standard of accuracy in addition to balancing concerns regarding privacy and the safety of individuals' data. However, there must be no doubt that we are fully committed to working globally in helping to define what those standards could look like in the future.

We have always met our international commitments. On beneficial ownership we meet the standards of both the FATF and the OECD. The Isle of Man works internationally to combat financial crime, contributing to improvements in global standards for anti-money laundering and countering terrorist financing. Our law enforcement agencies and Financial Intelligence Unit regularly work with and assist other countries with their investigations, providing information which includes beneficial ownership.

However, it must be for the Isle of Man to decide if and when we will introduce public beneficial ownership registers.

We are fully supportive of measures aimed at combatting money laundering and other financial crimes. We have made our commitment clear, with our Exchange of Notes with the United Kingdom in 2016 that we will exchange adequate, accurate and current information on beneficial ownership to combat tax evasion. And I have said before: we are committed to working with the UK Government, the OECD and the FATF in order to develop an effective global standard.

I would like to thank the Ministers and officers that have worked across the weekend preparing briefing material and statements and coordinating our work effectively with those of Jersey and Guernsey. While we welcome the swift action of the UK Government yesterday, we will continue to strongly resist any attempt to undermine our longstanding democracy.

Joint Statement on the deferral of the Financial Services (Implementation of Legislation) Bill

Mon, 04 Mar 2019 15:45:53 GMT

The governments of Jersey, Guernsey and the Isle of Man welcome the decision of the UK Government to defer debate of the Financial Services (Implementation of Legislation) Bill, and its associated amendments.

This deferral provides the opportunity for meaningful engagement with UK Ministers and parliamentarians on the matter of public registers of beneficial ownership, in a way that does not contravene the well-established constitutional relationships between our Islands and the Crown.

In particular, we want to move forward in a way that does not breach the rule that the United Kingdom does not legislate for the Crown Dependencies on domestic matters without our consent.

All of the Crown Dependencies observe the highest standards of financial services regulation and transparency.

We share a common policy aim with the United Kingdom of preventing international financial systems being used for criminal activity.

We are committed to exchanging adequate, accurate and current information on beneficial ownership to combat tax evasion, money laundering and corruption. Our track records on this matter, including the Exchange of Notes agreement we entered into with the United Kingdom in 2016, demonstrates that commitment.

We are determined to work with the UK Government, the OECD and FATF in order to develop an effective global standard that addresses the global problems of financial crime and tax evasion.

Chief Minister writes to select Members of the UK Parliament ahead of vote on UK’s Financial Services (Implementation of Legislation) Bill

Mon, 04 Mar 2019 11:36:53 GMT

Further to the joint statement with the States of Guernsey and Government of Jersey released on Friday, the Chief Minister, Howard Quayle MHK has left for London this evening to have meetings and discussions with MP’s ahead of the vote in Westminster tomorrow afternoon. This follows on from a weekend meeting of the National Strategy Group.

The Chief Minister has written to select MP’s ahead of tomorrow’s vote in Westminster. The Isle of Man Government will issue a further statement following the vote.

Joint Statement on the proposed amendments to the Financial Services (Implementation of Legislation) Bill

Mon, 04 Mar 2019 10:56:08 GMT

The governments of Jersey, Guernsey and the Isle of Man have raised strong objections to several amendments that are being proposed to the UK’s Financial Services (Implementation of Legislation) Bill.

We are not represented in the UK Parliament, and it is a respected constitutional position that the UK does not legislate for the Crown Dependencies on domestic matters without our consent. The proposed amendments are contrary to the established constitutional relationships that exist between the United Kingdom and each of the Crown Dependencies and, if passed, would produce inoperable legislation.

The proposed amendments attempt to impose public registers of beneficial ownership for all Crown Dependencies and Overseas Territories. We also consider the legislation to be wholly unnecessary in the context of our robust existing approach to the retention and sharing of beneficial ownership information. All Crown Dependencies are committed to the highest standards of financial services regulation and transparency. Our jurisdictions are parties to Exchange of Notes for Beneficial Ownership information with the UK and are committed to the aim of exchanging adequate, accurate and current information on beneficial ownership to help combat tax evasion, money laundering and corruption. These arrangements were reviewed in 2018 and found to be effective; the 2019 review is underway.

The standards applied by our jurisdictions exceed those of the United Kingdom, the registers in the Crown Dependencies contain information that is accurate and up to date. The Crown Dependencies cannot support any step that would adversely impact the effectiveness of our beneficial ownership registers, dilute the commitments we have made to transparency or reduce the robustness of our regulation.

We are proactively engaging with the UK Government and parliamentarians to address these concerns, providing focus on the importance of rejecting these amendments for the Crown Dependencies, in the wider context of the business before the UK Parliament this month.

The Chief Ministers of all three jurisdictions will be holding meetings in London on Monday on this matter.

Proposals aim to modernise Island’s rates system

Mon, 04 Mar 2019 12:21:15 GMT

A consultation has been launched today (28 February) to gain feedback on specific proposals to modernise the rates system. This work is an action from the Programme for Government and will inform a debate in Tynwald in June. It also builds on the feedback provided in the 2015 consultation.

The current system is based on the Rates and Valuation Act 1953 using historic rental values. Rates calculations are based on what a property could have been rented out for in 1969, in a good state of repair with the landlord meeting insurance, tax and maintenance costs. Properties built or extended after 1969 are given a value of a comparable property built before 1969.

A proposal to change the way non domestic and domestic rates are calculated and other aspects of rates modernisation will be debated by Tynwald in June.

The Government will propose that in future, rates are based on the size in square metres of all the floors in a building, with several aerial views and software used to measure each property initially. If this proposal is agreed by Tynwald then it is expected this methodology will be introduced with legislation in the 2019/2020 sittings, and revaluations carried out in coming years.

Other matters tackled in the consultation, and what to do about them, include the unequal distribution of non-domestic rates around the Island, the operation of businesses from domestic properties, charitable use, dilapidations, single occupancy, prompt payment and ability to pay.

Minister for Policy and Reform, Chris Thomas MHK, said:

‘Tynwald agreed in October 2018 that water and sewerage will be priced using an all-Island CPI-linked rate for the next five years. This increases the pressure to modernise the current rates system which is out of date and unfair. So the real issue is how to deal with this, and how to transition to an appropriate and fair system. This consultation will inform that practical decision.’

He added:

‘Having rates based on property area will provide consistency across the Island. Rates revaluation was carried out in Guernsey using this system at a fraction of the £2 million Tynwald approved for a traditional revaluation in 2015. Keeping the rateable values up-to-date would be easier and cheaper too, so we wouldn’t go nearly 50 years before the next comprehensive review, as has happened.’

‘It is also paramount that we address the unfair distribution of non-domestic rates across the Island, as well as the many other challenges that exist around the efficient and effective use of the £48 million plus raised and spent using the rates system.’

The consultation opens today for eight weeks and in addition, a series of workshops will be held with local authorities and other stakeholders. The results of the consultation will be published before the debate in June.

View the consultation online

Deadline approaching to respond to update of electoral register

Tue, 26 Feb 2019 15:19:55 GMT

The deadline is approaching for people to respond to the 2019 update of the Isle of Man’s electoral register.

More than 31,000 households have so far responded to the annual canvass, which captures the information required to maintain an accurate record of eligible voters.

Reminders are being sent to non-responding households ahead of the 18 March closing date.

It is a legal requirement to provide the information requested by the Electoral Registration Officer. Not being registered can also affect a person’s credit reference history and potentially result in an application for a mortgage, loan or mobile phone contract being refused.

People can respond in less than a minute via the online, telephone or text options if their household’s information remains unchanged. The web link can also be used to notify the Government of any changes to the details printed on the form.

Responses can still be provided by completing and signing the paper form and returning it in the pre-paid envelope provided. However, people are encouraged to use a computer, tablet or mobile phone wherever possible, as it is quicker and easier for households and more cost effective for the Government.

Any household that has not yet received a registration form should contact the Electoral Registration Unit on +44 1624 685741 or by email to elections@gov.im

Further information can be found on the Government website at www.gov.im/elections

Chief Minister welcomes planning approval for hotel and cinema complex

Mon, 11 Feb 2019 15:26:06 GMT

Chief Minister Howard Quayle MHK has today welcomed the news planning approval has been granted for a £25m hotel and cinema complex to be built on the former Lord Street bus station site in central Douglas.

He said:

‘This is fantastic news. The development of this site will be a welcome addition to Douglas town centre, creating a focus of activity with new jobs and facilities - key objectives of both the Programme for Government and Central Douglas Masterplan.

‘With the promenade works now well under way and the regeneration project in the main shopping area approaching completion, this private enterprise will complement government’s investment in modern infrastructure extremely well.’

The proposed development features:

• 7-screen Omniplex cinema

• 80-bed Travelodge hotel

• 3 restaurants

• 20 residential units

• 4 retail units, which may be changed to become 2 larger units

• 6-storey car park

Agreement for sale was reached with Kane Limited in December 2017 for the freehold purchase of the site from the Isle of Man Government.

The project fulfils a policy within the Programme for Government to consider the social and economic benefits alongside financial considerations when disposing of Government property.

Equine Influenza

Fri, 08 Feb 2019 15:34:18 GMT

Statement from Alistair Breed, Chief Veterinary Officer at the Isle of Man Government:

It is disappointing news to hear that more cases of Equine Influenza have now been confirmed in Great Britain. However I am pleased that many actions are being taken in the UK to reduce the risk of the virus spreading.

At the current time owners are advised not to import horses to the Isle of Man unless necessary and I would ask for the cooperation of horse owners with this. If horses are to be imported, increased biosecurity will be required to help protect the Isle of Man horse population, until further notice.

Import licenses now contain an additional requirement that is to isolate horses for two weeks following importation. This covers the incubation period and will enable detection of the disease should it occur and further isolation to contain the disease.

I will continue to closely monitor the situation and advise DEFA on appropriate actions to take if and when necessary.

More information and advice on Equine Influenza has also been added to the Government website.

Interested Person Status in planning appeals

Fri, 08 Feb 2019 10:49:50 GMT

In a joint statement issued today, the Minister for Policy and Reform, Minister Thomas MHK and the Minister for Environment, Food and Agriculture, Geoffrey Boot MHK, clarified the position regarding Interest Person Status in planning appeals.

Interested party status can be granted to someone who has a legitimate planning concern, lives within 20m of the application site (unless it is a development) and whether the land they own or occupy would be impacted by the development. These came into force as part of a new operational Policy in July 2018, following Tynwald's agreement in May 2018 that the Department undertake a range of procedural changes, which included the introduction of improved criteria regarding who is awarded 'Interested Person Status'. The policy applies to all new planning applications from July.

Minister Thomas said:

'We were told by businesses and individuals that the planning system took too long and was too bureaucratic, so we committed to make the changes set out in the Action Plan. Anyone has the right to submit comments and objections to planning applications, but local authorities have a vital role in this as they can object to planning applications as they have interested party status.'

Minister Boot added:

'Feedback that we received throughout the consultation highlighted that there needed to be a balance between getting on with development and ensuring that there was an ability for those with a legitimate and relevant planning concern to launch an appeal.

'We will be making further reforms to ensure that planning works for all those involved, allowing development but also protecting the rights of those that will be affected by it.'

The Isle of Man Government and local commissioners automatically have interested person status and Manx National Heritage has interested party status for registered building applications.

Full details of Operational Policy on Interested Person Status.

True meaning of home is theme for Holocaust Memorial Day 2019

Mon, 21 Jan 2019 14:35:44 GMT

Home. For most people the word suggests a place of safety, solace, comfort and security. So what trauma is faced by those torn away from their home - their country, community or dwelling?

That uneasy question lies at the heart of the Island's Holocaust Memorial Day 2019, when members of the public will be asked to reflect on the theme 'Torn from Home'.

The annual service brings together people from all walks of life to remember victims of the Holocaust and the genocides which followed in Cambodia, Rwanda, Bosnia and Darfur. In similar services across the UK, thousands of people come together each year to learn about the past and commit to a better future, remembering all who have suffered persecution worldwide.

This year's event will be held on 27 January 2019 at St Mary of the Isle Church in Hill Street, Douglas at 3pm, and is a multidenominational service open to people of all faiths and none.

Organiser Carol Jempson said:

'Through readings, prayers, music and song we will find out what happens when people are driven from their homes to escape persecution and violence. We'll think about the difficulties survivors face as they try to build new homes, often in a new country with a different language and culture. And realise that home means something personal to each of us.

'The service will remember how in Nazi Germany, Jewish people had their homes taken from them before being condemned to unspeakable misery and suffering. Genocide forces people to flee their home and start again elsewhere, without the security and support of family and friends. We hope that by reflecting on what home means, and how we'd cope if we had to leave ours, this year's theme will resonate with people in all sorts of ways.'

The Chief Minister Howard Quayle will give a reading at the service, highlighting the importance of teaching tolerance and understanding in our schools, places of worship and at home.

Mr Quayle said:

'Holocaust Memorial Day is an important occasion in Manx public life. It is both an act of solemn remembrance and an opportunity to commit, publicly and collectively, to build a society which does not tolerate persecution.

'Home means different things to different people. Many Manx residents regard the Isle of Man as home, as well as the house they live in, and that speaks of a supportive and welcoming community. We must all work to ensure that our community is welcoming and inclusive to those who choose to make their home here.'

Pupils from each of the Island's secondary schools will take part in the service, which will be attended by the President of Tynwald Steve Rodan and members of the Manx parliament alongside representatives from churches and community groups from around the Island.

The service is open to all and those attending are asked to be in their seats by 2.45pm.

Charities invited to apply for small grants to support international development

Fri, 18 Jan 2019 16:01:04 GMT

The Isle of Man Government is now accepting applications from Isle of Man registered charities looking for support to deliver international development projects.

Manx charities can now apply for 'Small Grant' funding, from the Isle of Man Government's international development budget. The total budget allocated for small grants is £270,000 per year, or £540,000 over each two-year funding cycle.

Manx registered charities are invited to submit proposals for two-year projects that take place in developing countries, with priority given to countries ranked as 'low development' on the United Nations Human Development Index. The objectives of each project will need to target one, or more, of the United Nation's 17 Sustainable Development Goals. A focus on these goals means each project will work towards tackling some of the world's most pressing issues.

Those seeking funding will be required to have both a physical presence in the Isle of Man and must be registered under the Isle of Man Charities Registration Act 1989. Charities will also need to raise a minimum of 10% of the total funding and include details of how the work will be publicised on the Island.

The Isle of Man Government will fund up to 90% of the total project budget. The minimum grant available is £10,000 and the maximum grant available is £100,000.

The Chief Minister Howard Quayle MHK commented:

'I am pleased to announce that once more we are looking to offer small grant funding to Manx charities to undertake projects in the developing world. This will build on our past efforts to assist local charities in their endeavours to tackle some of the world's most pressing issues.

'By continuing to fund targeted and effective international development projects, we honour our commitment set out in the Programme of Government to be a responsible, inclusive and caring government, by helping those less fortunate than ourselves.'

Small grants is one of five funding streams administered by the Cabinet Office to distribute the Isle of Man Government's £2.5 million annual International Development Fund. All projects funded are required to meet the international development policy objectives as agreed by the Council of Ministers.

The other four funding streams are:

Global Development and Education Awareness Raising Grant – this supports an Isle of Man registered charity, or charities, to address the Government's policy objective of raising awareness of global development issues throughout the Manx population
Disaster and Emergency Relief Budget – this is reserved for Disasters Emergency Committee (DEC) Live Appeals for humanitarian disasters
International Development Partnerships – this supports four separate larger projects tasked with tackling some of the world's most pressing matters such as providing greener energy solutions and empowering young girls and women as a means to better society as a whole
Small Countries Financial Management Programme – this contributes to the growth and prosperity of small countries, through capacity building in the Government financial sector of small developing countries

Further details of the international development funding streams.

Applications for Small Grants funding are being accepted online.

Full guidance for Small Grants applications.

The deadline for applications is 5pm on 8 February 2019.

The Isle of Man's Development Education Centre, the One World Centre, will be holding a free workshop on 19 January 2019 to provide support to charities interested in applying for small grants funding. The workshop will take place at 10.30am in the Department of Environment, Food and Agriculture's Training Room (next to the One World Centre Office) in St Johns. For more information please email One World Centre.

Queries relating to the application process can be emailed to International Development or applicants can telephone +44 1624 687168.

Annual update of the electoral register

Fri, 11 Jan 2019 14:32:11 GMT

Registration forms will shortly be sent to all households in the Isle of Man as part of the 2019 update of the electoral register.

The annual canvass helps to capture the information required to maintain an accurate record of people who are eligible to vote or serve on a jury.

Forms will be posted the week commencing 14 January 2019 to all households currently listed on the electoral register and to ‘The Occupier’ at properties with no registered electors.

It is a legal requirement to respond to the annual canvass, even if an individual chooses not to exercise their democratic right to vote.

Not being registered can also affect a person’s credit reference history and potentially result in an application for a mortgage, loan or mobile phone contract being refused.

Improvements have been introduced in recent years to make the canvass process quicker and easier for residents, as well as generating efficiencies for the Government.

For most households the printed details on their registration form, such as the address and list of eligible voters living at the property, will remain unchanged. If that is the case, people can respond in less than a minute via a telephone call, text message or online.

The online option is also available for people to notify the Electoral Registration Unit of any amendments to the prepopulated information.

Responses can still be provided by completing and signing the paper form and returning it in the pre-paid envelope provided. However, people are encouraged to use a computer, tablet or mobile phone where possible, as it costs more to deal with paper and postal returns than it does for online, phone or text messages.

Future developments will support a move towards e-canvassing for households who wish to be contacted by email rather than by post.

Electoral Registration Officer Della Fletcher said:

‘An accurate electoral register is vital to the integrity of the Island’s democratic process. We need to update our information every year to capture any changes of address or revisions to the list of eligible voters in a household.’

She added:

‘We are continuing to improve the process to make it simpler and more convenient for everyone. With a phone call, text or a few clicks online, people can now respond in a matter of seconds.’

The deadline for responses to the 2019 annual canvass is 18 March.

Further information about the electoral registration process and who is eligible to vote can be found on the Government website or by contacting elections@gov.im or tel: +44 1624 685741.

Island prepared for ‘No Deal’ Brexit

Wed, 19 Dec 2018 17:01:38 GMT

With the ongoing debate surrounding the outcome of the Brexit negotiations, there is heightened interest in ‘No Deal’ preparations being made in the UK.

Chief Minister Howard Quayle MHK said:

‘The interests of the Isle of Man have been strongly represented in discussions with the UK Government on a number of issues and in respect of both a Deal and No Deal outcome, and I am confident that we are as fully prepared as we can be at this stage. This does not mean that we are being complacent and recognise this is an unfolding and complex issue, and matters continue to develop.’

The Isle of Man Government has been working with the UK Government for many months to prepare for a potential scenario where the UK leaves the EU without a negotiated settlement in place.

While it is still hoped that agreement will be reached, this planning has been undertaken in parallel with preparations for a new UK/EU relationship, as it is the sensible and prudent course of action.

In the autumn, 106 Technical Notices were issued by the UK, which give an overview of the likely impact of a No Deal EU exit, and they provide information on the actions businesses and individuals may need to take after the UK leaves the EU.

These technical notices are available on the Isle of Man Government website at www.gov.im/brexit and provide not only links to the UK Government advice, but also provide a brief overview of each issue from an Isle of Man perspective. In many areas, there is unlikely to be any direct impact on the Isle of Man.

The Isle of Man Government has also provided information for businesses, and letters have been sent directly to traders, freight, transport and cargo companies by Isle of Man Customs and Excise. In addition, the Department for Enterprise has been in dialogue with partners through a number of industry bodies, and has also prepared advice for businesses, which is to be issued later this week.

The focus of Government’s preparations has been to consider the security and continuity of supply of fuel, medicines and food to the Isle of Man.

In respect of the Island’s fuel supplies, for example, fuel oil and petrol come from outside the EU, are refined in the UK and shipped to the Isle of Man. Gas is supplied via a pipeline from the UK. There is no interruption expected to these supplies from a No Deal Brexit.

There have been regular discussions with the UK on contingency planning at which the Island’s particular needs have been put across, to ensure that these will continue to be met. The UK is addressing supply chain issues, and assurances have been given that the Isle of Man is factored into UK plans. These discussions are ongoing and work will continue apace in the event of No Deal.

The Isle of Man Government will continue to engage with the UK authorities, and will provide further information for businesses and the public. The meaningful vote in the House of Commons, scheduled for 14 January 2019, will give further indication into whether a Deal is likely to be agreed. If a No Deal outcome appears more likely, work on contingency planning will escalate.

Year of Our Island partners with Island’s Scouts and Girlguiding groups

Thu, 29 Nov 2018 11:08:26 GMT

Four Beavers from 1st Douglas Scout Group’s Buggane Colony have been awarded a new, specially commissioned, badge in recognition of their efforts to explore more, share more and do more as part of the 2018 Year of Our Island celebrations.

The four boys were presented with the badges by Minister Chris Thomas MHK and Tanya August-Hanson MLC.

Miss August-Hanson and Kerry Sharpe MLC were also on hand to present badges to some of the Island’s Brownies.

Members of Scouts and Girlguiding groups can earn the badge by completing at least two activities themed around Year of Our Island:

‘Explore More’ – by walking at least four of the Year of Our Island Trail routes
‘Share More’ – by taking photographs and talking positively about their walks and the Island’s outdoors
‘Do More’ – by taking part in a community-led events.

Minister Thomas said:

'I am delighted to present this first sets of badges. We’ve heard so many great stories from people of all ages who have embraced what Year of Our Island is all about and tried something different in 2018.

'We are incredibly proud to see so many members of our Scouts and Girlguiding groups across the Isle of Man working hard to earn their badge by taking part in walks and engaging with the wider community. The badge will be just one small legacy of this special year of celebration and we hope Scouts and Girlguiding members will continue to work towards achieving them.'

'We are grateful to The Scout Association – Isle of Man and Girlguiding Isle of Man for partnering with us on this initiative.'

'I for one look forward to hearing more of what our young explorers have been up to during 2018 and beyond.'

Year of Our Island is a cross Government project which celebrates our Island as a special place to live and work. Over the course of 2018, Year of Our Island has worked closely with organisations from across the Isle of Man to celebrate the Island’s quality of life, enhance national pride and create partnerships throughout the Island’s rich and diverse communities.

To find out more about Year of Our Island go online to ourisland.im, email ourisland@gov.im or call +44 1624 687007.

Appointment of Second Deemster

Thu, 29 Nov 2018 11:05:55 GMT

His Worship High Bailiff John Needham has been appointed as Her Majesty’s Second Deemster in the Isle of Man, the Island’s third most senior judge.

His Worship John Needham has served as the Island’s High Bailiff since 2010, having previously been appointed as Clerk to the Justices in the Isle of Man in 1999. Prior to this he had worked for five years as a solicitor dealing with both civil and criminal litigation in London.

He will succeed Deemster Andrew Corlett who was appointed as Her Majesty’s First Deemster and Clerk of the Rolls in September 2018.

The appointment is made by Her Majesty The Queen, based on a recommendation made by a local selection panel, following an open recruitment process.

The Second Deemster assists the First Deemster in respect of judicial, administration, ceremonial and other duties assigned to the Second Deemster by the First Deemster.

The Isle of Man prides itself on its values of democracy, good government and the importance of the rule of law. The judiciary is a key component in delivering these values and in maintaining the Island’s international reputation.

High Bailiff Needham said he was delighted to receive news of his appointment as Second Deemster and looked forward to continuing to work closely in this office with Deemster Corlett and the other members of the Isle of Man Judiciary and court staff in administering justice in an open, cost-effective and transparent way – as is expected in a modern and mature society.

The Lieutenant Governor, Sir Richard Gozney, said:

'I welcome The Queen’s appointment of High Bailiff Needham as Second Deemster to succeed His Honour Andrew Corlett. The High Bailiff is well respected.'

The official swearing in of Second Deemster will now be arranged.

Applications are now being invited for the role of High Bailiff, with a deadline for applications of Wednesday 9 January 2019 at 5pm.

Brexit – Withdrawal Agreement and Political Declaration

Wed, 28 Nov 2018 09:13:53 GMT

The Chief Minister Howard Quayle MHK spoke, this morning, with the Parliamentary Undersecretary of State for Exiting the EU, Robin Walker MP, to discuss the successful conclusion of the Withdrawal Agreement and the Political Declaration by the Prime Minister in Brussels on Sunday.

The Minister reiterated that the UK Government has negotiated the Withdrawal Agreement on behalf of the whole UK and the Crown Dependencies. This means that the Isle of Man and the other Crown Dependencies are included in the Withdrawal Agreement and the Implementation Period, providing Isle of Man businesses and citizens with certainty.

On the future relationship with the EU outlined in the Political Declaration, the Prime Minister has been clear that the UK will negotiate on behalf of all territories for whose external relations the UK is responsible. Minister Walker underlined that the UK Government will be seeking arrangements for the Crown Dependencies that take account of their existing relationships with the EU and strike a proportionate balance of rights and responsibilities. This future relationship will respect the Island’s constitutional relationship with the UK and the Island’s fiscal autonomy.

The Chief Minister commented:

'The UK Government has been able to confirm that our interests have been protected, and that we have been included within the Withdrawal Agreement and Implementation Period, to the limited extent of our current Protocol 3 relationship. We now await the result of the parliamentary debate and vote in the UK with great interest.'

He added:

'The UK has also committed to ensuring that they will negotiate on our behalf in discussions with the EU on the future relationship, and that these discussions will respect our constitutional position, as well as taking account of our existing relationship with the EU.

'There is still some way to go, and we will continue to work closely with the UK to ensure we can achieve a new relationship which is proportionate, and balances our rights against our responsibilities. For now, this work includes continuing to prepare for the possibility that there is no deal, and that the UK leaves without any arrangements in place in March next year.'

Results of 2018 Social Attitudes Survey published

Mon, 19 Nov 2018 11:05:12 GMT

The findings of the 2018 Social Attitudes Survey has been published today (Monday, 19 November 2018).

The annual survey is used to gather the views of the public on a wide number of areas of life in the Isle of Man.

As well as general demographics data, topics covered include: employment and income; satisfaction with public services; safety, crime and justice; childcare; and recreation and leisure.

Minister for Policy and Reform, Chris Thomas MHK, said:

'The annual survey on social attitudes provides Government with valuable insight on how people feel public services are performing as well as life in the Isle of Man more generally. This information is highly valuable in developing and shaping government policy and I extend my thanks to all those who took part.

'As we now carry out surveys like this more frequently, we are able to identify changes and trends as they emerge, allowing government to be more responsive.'

A full copy of the report, including an executive summary and highlights, is available online.

Completing Household Income and Expenditure Survey leads to £1,000 prize for couple

Fri, 16 Nov 2018 12:01:00 GMT

More residents are being encouraged to take part in a survey on household finances.

Data collected during the Household Income and Expenditure Survey (HIES) assists in determining the basket of goods used to measure inflation.

It also plays an important role in calculating the Isle of Man's indirect tax share under the VAT-sharing arrangement with the UK.

As an incentive to participate in the survey, households which take part are entered into a draw to win £1,000. Also, everyone aged 16 or over who takes part in the survey receives a one-off payment of £15.

Invitations are sent to a random sample of Island households to encourage a wide cross-section of the Manx public to get involved. People can also volunteer by visiting http://www.gov.im/householdspending

Rosalind Bate of Laxey was recently announced as a lucky winner and was presented with her prize by Minister for Policy and Reform Chris Thomas MHK at Government Offices.

Mrs Bate said:

'I would recommend taking part in the survey - filling in the paperwork was very easy on a daily basis. It took a little bit of time when we did our big shops from the supermarket and had longer receipts, but most of the time it was just a couple of minutes a day.'

Reflecting on her winnings, Mrs Bate said:

'My husband and I have a cruise booked for next January/February, so we've decided going to stay at a nicer hotel on our way to Manchester. We've just been told by the cruise company that our cabin has been upgraded, so I'm just waiting to hear what my third bit of good luck might be this week!'

Minister Thomas said:

'The survey is very important in developing policy and helps to present a clear picture of household spending in the Island. Taking part enables Government to make informed decisions – and allows families to be in with the chance to win, just like Mr and Mrs Bate.'

After a short initial interview at their home, participants are required to keep a diary over a two-week period to monitor the entire household's expenditure. All the information collected is treated in the strictest confidence.

The Cabinet Office is looking for more households to participate in the Household Income and Expenditure Survey. Further information is available online, by calling Dr Erin Stepney on +441624 685743 or email Erin.Stepney@gov.im.