Concerns raised over scope of Isle of Man-Liverpool Memorandum

Onchan MHK queries expansion of agreement, while government denies any plans to merge public services

An MHK is raising concerns about the expansion of a new Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed between the Isle of Man and Liverpool.

Onchan member Julie Edge says while previous agreements have focused mainly on cultural and economic links - particularly in support of business - the latest MoU also refers to public services and governance, which she believes raises important questions about the Island’s political autonomy.

Speaking after tabling questions in the House of Keys, Ms Edge said she had yet to see clear benefits from earlier memorandums and questioned the drive towards broadening the areas of cooperation.

She acknowledged that the Isle of Man has long-standing cultural ties and strong connectivity with Liverpool, as well as existing partnerships in areas such as healthcare.

However, she argued that any expansion into governance, education, or public services needs careful scrutiny.

In response, Chief Minister Alf Cannan has published the full wording of the agreement and stressed there are no plans to combine any of the Isle of Man’s public services with those in Liverpool.

He said the MoU simply outlines opportunities for cooperation between the two jurisdictions in the future.

The Memorandum was signed earlier this month at a ceremony at the new Liverpool Ferry Terminal.