Former Tynwald clerk accused of assaulting child

74-year-old in court

A former Clerk of Tynwald will stand trial after being accused of indecently assaulting a seven-year-old girl.

St John Bates appeared before Deputy High Bailiff Jayne Hughes at Douglas Courthouse this morning.

From 1987 until 2001, St John Bates was the most senior secretary in the Manx parliament.

But today the 74-year-old stood in the dock on two charges concerning a child - one of indecent assault and another of gross indecency.

The allegations relate to an incident which is said to have taken place on 3 July this year.

Professor Bates spoke only to confirm his identity and his intention to plead not guilty.

The case has been adjourned and he will appear in court again on 4 December.