At attempt by a member of the House of Keys to have the Steam Packet put into public ownership has failed at the first stage.
Tynwald considered a suggestion from Michael MHK David Cannan for a select committee to examine the viability of the Manx government buying the firm.
But, during a debate which lasted an hour and a half, the court heard buying the Steam Packet could cost ?250 million, running it could cost millions more each year, and the taxpayer would be saddled with the company's debts.
In the end, the motion was defeated by 20 votes.
A number of members got up to voice their opposition to the idea, including South Douglas MHK Bill Malarkey:
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