A backbench member of the House of Keys is warning any would-be MHKs the next five years will be 'a lousy time' to be involved in politics.

Rushen member Juan Watterson, who is seeking re-election after completing his first five-year term, says some very difficult decisions will have to be faced, and anybody who thinks being a politician is about popularity is going to be sorely disappointed.

Mr Watterson, a qualified chartered accountant, says the next five years will be about reviewing the economy and the scope of government, and getting more for less

He says one area where money could be saved is the social care budget and the universal benefit system, and says family income and income support, and job seekers' allowance should be closely examined (listen to audio file below):

Mr Watterson is one of four candidates who have declared so far in the three-seat constituency of Rushen, the others being fellow sitting members Phil Gawne and Quintin Gill, and challenger Laurence Skelly.