A statement on the Scottish independence referendum result has just been issued by Chief Minister Allan Bell.
It says he is looking forward to a continuation of the Island’s positive relationship with the Scottish government following the outcome of the country’s referendum on independence.
He says although Scotland has voted in favour of remaining within the United Kingdom it is expected to gain greater autonomy, short of full independence, and that could have implications throughout the British Islands.
Scotland is the Isle of Man’s closest neighbour and a potential economic partner as well as competitor.
He adds the Isle of Man has developed a good working relationship with the Scottish government in recent years and there is no reason why that should not continue now that the results of the referendum are known.
The Isle of Man government has been following the referendum campaign with considerable interest and we will be closely monitoring further developments.