The Rt.Hon. Sir Alan Haselhurst MP is to be guest speaker at the Isle of Man Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (CPA) dinner on Tuesday, March 13.

Conservative MP for Saffron Walden since 1977 Sir Alan chairs the UK CPA and in July 2011 was elected chairperson of the CPA international executive committee. Knighted in 1995 he is a former deputy Speaker of the House of Commons and has spoken of the need for the CPA to ‘focus on the diverse and complex issues facing island states and smaller branches’.

The self-funded event, with a guest list of present and former CPA members, will be held at the Claremont Hotel and include entertainment provided by the senior guitar ensemble from the Isle of Man Department of Education and Children’s music service.

While in the Island Sir Alan will visit the Legislative Buildings where he will be given a tour of Tynwald Court conducted by the President of Tynwald the Hon Clare Christian MLC and of the House of Keys led by the Speaker, Hon Steve Rodan MHK, during which the Tynwald voice recognition transcription technology will be demonstrated.  Sir Alan will also meet with the executive committee of the Isle of Man branch of the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association and visit Tynwald Hill and the Royal Chapel at St John’s.

CPA Isle of Man branch chairman Mr Juan Watterson MHK said: ‘We are honoured to welcome Sir Alan to the Isle of Man following his election as CPA international executive committee chairperson. He brings strong leadership and direction to the association at a time of change across the Commonwealth and we very much look forward to what, I am sure, will be an insightful speech.’

-ENDS-