The Isle of Man’s positive contribution to the United Kingdom economy was highlighted during a series of meetings in Westminster this week.
Chief Minister Howard Quayle MHK and Treasury Minister Alfred Cannan MHK led a senior delegation to London to continue the Isle of Man Government’s programme of engagement with MPs.
An update on issues including Brexit and tax transparency was provided to members of the United Kingdom-Isle of Man (Manx) All-Party Parliamentary Group, which comprises MPs and peers from all the main UK political parties.
Mr Quayle and Mr Cannan also met the Premiers of the Overseas Territories (OTs) and the Chief Minister of Guernsey in the margins of the OTs Joint Ministerial Council meeting held in London.
The Chief Minister said: ‘The meetings enabled me to emphasise the Island’s position as a well-regulated and responsible international business centre that supports the British economy. In light of the one-sided coverage of the Paradise Papers in the UK media it was important to meet MPs from all parties and dispel some of the myths. I was able to emphasise our track record of financial transparency and tax cooperation, a fact reinforced by the Isle of Man retaining its top compliant rating from the OECD.’
Mr Quayle added: ‘Our policy of proactive engagement with the UK parliament helps to build a deeper understanding of the Isle of Man. It is vital for our international reputation and future prosperity that we continue to defend our position on key issues.’
The Isle of Man delegation also gained an insight into the latest developments regarding the UK’s withdrawal from the European Union.
The Treasury Minister said: ‘It is useful to spend time on the ground in Westminster to hear first-hand about how the UK is planning to position itself in the post-Brexit era. The discussions also provided an opportunity to explain how the Isle of Man supports world trade, creates jobs and maximises investments. While the Island has been in the media spotlight recently, we have a lot to be proud of and meeting MPs face-to-face is a good way to deliver the right messages to the right people.’
