Treasury refutes claim new SPC director gives department more control over ferry operator

Questions were raised over the appointment of a former MHK

A political member for Treasury has refuted suggestions that a former MHK has been appointed as a non-executive director at the Steam Packet Company to give the department more control over the ferry operator.

Douglas Central member Chris Thomas raised concerns over Bill Shimmins' suitability for the role, with the former Middle MHK having been part of Treasury when the company was purchased by government.

He questioned whether Mr Shimmins' political past was considered when applications for the position were considered:

Michelle Haywood told the court she was "thoroughly ashamed" to witness the comments in Tynwald, adding that there was no conspiracy for Treasury to control the Steam Packet, while Middle MHK Jane Poole-Wilson said Mr Thomas's comments were not appropriate:

MLC Bill Henderson called for Mr Thomas to withdraw his remarks. Mr Thomas insisted his comments were general except for one remark about Mr Shimmins' CV, but did agree to withdraw any disparaging comments.

The appointment of Mr Shimmins, as well as marketing expert Amanda Bindon, were approved.