Excluding ex-politicians from publicly-owned companies 'not realistic'

MHK insists he was right to question selection of former MHK for Steam Packet role

A political member for Treasury says it's not practical to exclude former Tynwald members from serving on the boards of publicly-owned companies.

It comes after some members voiced concerns over the selection of former Middle MHK Bill Shimmins as a non-executive director for the Steam Packet Company.

Questions were raised over whether he was a suitable candidate due to his political past, having been a member of Treasury when the ferry operator was purchased.

But Michelle Haywood says it doesn't make sense to rule out applicants who've served in the Island's parliament:

Douglas Central member Chris Thomas faced calls to apologise and withdraw remarks he made over the selection of former Middle MHK Bill Shimmins as a non-executive director for the operator.

Mr Thomas also questioned whether Mr Shimmins' appointment gave Treasury more control of the Steam Packet.

He insists he was right to flag his concerns:

Tynwald approved the appointment of Mr Shimmins, alongside marketing expert Amanda Bindon.