Chief Minister Allan Bell MHK has this week underlined his commitment to enhancing the Isle of Man’s relationship with the United Kingdom Government and City of London. Mr Bell, together with Chief Secretary Will Greenhow and Director of External Relations Della Fletcher, held positive discussions with the Rt Hon Lord McNally, Minister of State for Justice, Alderman David Wootton, Lord Mayor of London, and Mark Field, Conservative MP for the Cities of London and Westminster. The meetings in London on Tuesday and Wednesday (December 6 and 7) continued the Isle of Man Government’s programme of engagement with key figures in Westminster and the City. The Chief Minister took the opportunity to promote a deeper understanding of the Isle of Man and its value to the UK economy, and also to discuss ways of strengthening political and business alliances. He said: ‘The Isle of Man is an important trading partner of the UK and we share the same vision of growing our economies in a balanced and sustainable way. These are challenging times for all nations, but there are also opportunities and by working together the Isle of Man and UK can explore areas of mutual benefit.’ The Ministry of Justice has a crucial role to play in representing the Crown Dependencies, and the Chief Minister discussed with Lord McNally efforts to further raise awareness of the Island’s constitutional position. The Chief Minister said: ‘The Island enjoys a strong partnership with the Ministry of Justice and many Whitehall Departments. Lord McNally knows the Isle of Man very well and it was helpful to have the opportunity to discuss various issues and share our respective positions. Whilst we have faced some challenges together, it is my intention that we should now focus our energies on dealing with current and future opportunities.’ The Island’s position as a core asset to the City, and its value to the North West of England, was highlighted during a meeting with David Wootton, Lord Mayor of London. The Chief Minister said: ‘We spoke about the Isle of Man’s diverse and dynamic economy and how UK markets and financial institutions benefit from the Island’s success as an international business centre. The Lord Mayor was very interested in the Island’s connections with the North West of England. He is keen to work with us and I’m delighted that he has accepted my invitation to visit the Island in January.’ Mr Bell discussed the current crisis in the Eurozone and its implications for the world economy when he met City MP Mark Field. ‘The Isle of Man is a small but important part of the international community and we must remain vigilant to the changing economic landscape. Mark Field is a good friend of the Island and it was interesting to hear his views on the current situation,’ said the Chief Minister. He concluded: ‘The meetings in London were very beneficial. I will continue to engage positively with my counterparts in the UK to promote new business opportunities and to ensure that the Island is recognised as a country that is internationally responsible, enterprising and supportive of the British economy.’ - Ends -