One of the Island's most prominent ex-servicemen is calling on the next government to make a formal pledge to look after Manx armed forces personnel.

Honorary Colonel Charles Wilson has written an open letter to all members of Tynwald, urging them to follow the lead of UK prime minister David Cameron in forming a Military Covenant.

Colonel Wilson says the Island should give its servicemen and women special consideration in areas like housing, healthcare and travel.

Charles Wilson has been appointed Honorary Colonel of the Island's Army Cadet Force so, with his links with ex-service organisations, he now speaks for young and retired service personnel.

In the letter, he urges Tynwald members to campaign for more military representation - at present no minister has responsibility for armed forces policy in their portfolio.

David Cameron has undertaken to see a Military Covenant on the welfare of armed forces personel - embodied in law.

Colonel Wilson asks Tynwald members to consider making such a pledge if they form part of the next government.

He wants returning service personnel to be considered special cases to guarantee their needs are met,
in housing this could be priority on local authority housing lists and discounted rents for those on active service.

He also suggests the government should pay the full costs of leave travel, for visits to the Isle of Man.