Positive Action Group - Possan Jantys Jarrooagh

Autumn 2010 saw a new glossy magazine called “more” launched on behalf of Allan Bell's Department of Economic Development.

Designer and publisher Keith Uren declares it is "aimed exclusively at attracting wealthy individuals to the Island by highlighting the style of sophisticated living it has to offer".

According to Mr Uren, who is a highly experienced publisher of magazines covering business, motoring, travel and property, it is "a subtly effective marketing tool for the Department to assist high net worth individuals in becoming domicile in the Isle of Man". Prominent in the articles on luxury goods, premium motoring and latest technology is a section "showcasing the Island's most exclusive properties".

Here's the Chief Minister's written answer:

"Progress continues to be made in bringing forward a Freedom of Information Bill, for which Government remains committed to its introduction into the branches during the current legislative session. It is acknowledged that progress on the Bill has been slower than originally anticipated. I can confirm that the responses to the consultation exercise, some of which have been quite detailed, have been collated and work continues to consider the comments received, and to consider whether there should be changes made to the proposed legislation, for final consideration by the Council of Ministers prior to the Bill being introduced into the House".

We've been getting a similar message for the last 4 years Mr Brown!

Real commitment eh?

In January 2011, Tynwald received and approved (with amendments) the Report of the SELECT COMMITTEE OF TYNWALD ON THE COMMITTEE SYSTEM.

If all the amended recommendations are implemented they will have a significant effect on the scrutiny of Government. It is a major development which is wholeheartedly supported by PAG.

The essential remit of the Select Committee was to assess the benefits of establishing a system of standing committees relating to the work of Government departments including indentifying the related costs and staffing requirements.

In the Appendices at the end of the lengthy Report is a submission giving a revealing insight into the relationship of Senior Civil Servants with politicians.

Introducing a new feature in which we invite you to listen in and report back on the word games politicians and civil servants play.

First prize (up to now) in the mixed metaphor stakes of the current administration goes to an Onchan MHK (no, not THAT one) who warned not long after his election:

'We must be careful not to over-egg our favourite hobbyhorse.'