The Chief Minister of Jersey Frank Walker has praised the Isle of Man's
"strong sense of identity and national pride", qualities which he said "were in greater evidence here than in his own country".

Mr Walker was the guest speaker at a lunch organised by the Association of Corporate Service Providers and sponsored by Anglo Irish Bank.

He told his audience at the Hilton hotel that he would continue working towards securing a " level playing field" in order to gain improved market access and added that there would be many opportunities for the two jurisdictions to share expertise and resources and work together on the global stage.

He said the two jurisdictions were swift to adapt to change and that both
"had what it takes to prosper".

Something else he said that may make Manx tourism chiefs and indeed the person is the next Tourism Minister, should David Cretney step down, take note: that Jersey's tourism Industry, previously in decline, was now benefiting from a ?100 million investment programme with the Jersey waterfront to be regenerated through private sector investment of some ?350 millions.
Douglas' harbour area is still awaiting definite plans for its long promised regeneration.
Chief Minister Walker pictured centre. St Helier waterfront left, HIlton Hotel right.