Equality Bill at clauses stage in Keys

Seven questions for oral answer

Twenty-seven amendments to clauses and schedules in the Equality Bill will be considered by MHKs today.

The bill once again dominates proceedings in the House of Keys, with it being at the consideration of clauses stage.

Before that, members will sit through seven questions for oral answer.

The majority of the questions once again come from North Douglas MHK David Ashford and Ramsey MHK Lawrie Hooper.

Mr Ashford wants to know if the infrastructure minister has given any consideration to compulsory purchase powers to deal with dilapidated and ruinous properties.

He'll also ask Ray Harmer if he has any thoughts on varying vehicle duty for cars using alternative fuel sources.

Mr Ashford also has questions on dealing with coverage shortages for school crossing patrols and the makeup of the new King Scallop Consultation Board.

Mr Hooper has two questions for the policy and reform minister, on what plans he has to address private sector rent levels, and what proportion of public sector staff paid more than £50,000 work in front-line roles.

And Mr Hooper's fellow Ramsey MHK, Dr Alex Allinson, will ask the infrastructure minister for an update on the proposed Ramsey transport interchange and future of the existing bus station in the town.

You can hear live coverage of House of Keys questions on Manx Radio's AM1368 frequency, online at manxradio.com and via the smartphone apps from 10am.