The problems faced by the Steam Packet, following the introduction of a rival freight shipping service, are set to dominate the December sitting of Tynwald, which starts on Tuesday.

As well as Michael MHK David Cannan's motion, proposing public ownership of the company, there are a number of questions, covering various related issues.

Graham Bell reports:

Question time will start with Mr Cannan himself turning up the heat on Chief Minister Tony Brown, in terms of possible government intervention.

He will ask if the Council of Ministers is content for the competition, in terms of freight, and possible future passenger services, to take its natural course.

North Douglas member Bill Henderson will ask Mr Brown what contingencies are in place if the Steam Packet fails to meet its obligations under the User Agreement, in part or full.

He will also ask the Economic Development Minister what talks he has had with unions which have expressed concerns about job losses at the Packet.

East Douglas member Brenda Cannell will point out the value of the Steam Packet Pension Scheme was ?27 million in June this year, and will seek an assurance from the Attorney General that the money couldn't be used for any alternative purposes.

She will ask him whether it's correct, under British and Manx law, that it can only be used for members of the pension scheme.