The owner of the Solway Harvester has failed to respond to an ultimatum from the Manx court.

South-west Scotland businessman Richard Gidney was last month due to be the key witness at the inquest into the sinking of the vessel.

However, after seeking legal advice, he refused to attend on the grounds it may prejudice any civil action by the families of the crewmen.

Despite being urged by Coroner Michael Moyle to reconsider his position, there has still been no response from Mr Gidney.

Mr Moyle will now reconsider his position on how to obtain the evidence on commission.

Mr Gidney was last year acquitted of the manslaughter of the seven crew.