The Council of Ministers has published a summary report on the responses to the recent consultation on the Representation of the People (Amendment) Bill and Representation of the People Regulations.
 
The eight-week consultation period closed on 27 June and twenty responses were received. The report contains a summary of the main comments which emerged from the consultation, together with the Cabinet Office’s response.
 
There were a number of areas where there was broad support for the proposals in both the draft Bill and the draft detailed Regulations.
 
Minister Robertshaw said: “The consultation responses have been welcomed by the Council of Ministers. Following the East Douglas by-election in May 2010, an independent review provided recommendations that have been included in the draft Bill. The Bill will update the law governing House of Keys elections, and provide a robust and transparent electoral process ensuring the Isle of Man’s international reputation continues to thrive and attract inward investment.”
 
The Cabinet Office will now seek to make some minor amendments to the draft Bill, which will be presented to the Council of Ministers for approval for introduction to the Branches of Tynwald.
 
The Regulations will be revised following the consultation but will not be finalised until the Bill has received Royal Assent.
 
The summary report is available here.