A senior member of the Manx Government has spoken of his fear that a public vote to elect the Island's chief minister could turn into a media driven popularity contest.

John Shimmin told last night's meeting of the Positive Action Group that he backed South Douglas MHK Bill Malarkey's move to bring forward a bill which could change the way the Island's top politician is elected.

Mr Shimmin, who unsuccessfully contested the position of chief minister at the last general election, said the public should be able to express their views on whether there should be a direct vote on who filled the position.

But he also identified what he saw as a flaw in the proposed system (play audio file):

Mr Malarkey will put his proposal for a publicly elected chief minister out to consultation in due course.