A sitting of the House of Keys is to feature in BBC2 Scotland’s ‘News Night Scotland’. Televised scenes from the proceedings of Tuesday February 28 are to appear in an episode of the late-night political programme after BBC2 Scotland journalist Mr Ian Hamilton and a camera crew spent two days in the Isle of Man preparing a report into the functioning of parliamentary democracy in the Island, against a background of constitutional discussions in Scotland on devolution.

Mr Hamilton, who interviewed a number of prominent figures in the Island including the Chief Minister, Hon Allan Bell MHK and Speaker of the House of Keys Hon Steve Rodan MHK, explained: ‘It has been suggested the Isle of Man is a good example of “devo max”, consequently an alternative to independence. We have been looking at other examples around the world but here there could be one on our doorstep.’

Mr Speaker said: ‘We were pleased to assist Mr Hamilton in the making of his report and welcomed the opportunity to offer a wider audience access to a sitting of the House of Keys and, by so doing, help illustrate parliamentary democracy in action in the Isle of Man.’

No date has been given for the broadcast although it is expected to air during the week commencing Monday March 5.

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(Photos: Paul Dougherty, Seneschal)

For further information contact:
Office of the Clerk of Tynwald
Tel: (01624) 685500
Email: enquiries@tynwald.org.im
Website: https://www.tynwald.org.im