An MHK has been told access to the controversial footpath around Langness may ultimately be a matter for the Courts to decide.

In a written reply to a Tynwald question, Chief Minister Donald Gelling said the Department of Transport had received information from the Attorney General over its responsibility for maintaining public access to the path.

Rushen MHK Quintin Gill had asked Mr Gelling what was being done to resolve the row over public access to the peninsula.

Mr Gelling said present Highways legislation did not guarantee public access to the land, adding he had no power to ensure the landowner - TV presenter Jeremy Clarkson - removed any alleged obstructions to the path.