Public input to budget process considered

Minister aims to engage more with tax payers

Involving the public more closely in the Manx budget process is being considered, the House of Keys has heard.

However, the Treasury Minister has stopped short of saying the public should be allowed to vote on elements of the budget.

The suggestion was made by Ramsey MHK Lawrie Hooper who said such a process had worked in various parts of the world including states in America.

Alfred Cannan told the House he was aware of the ideas being suggested by Mr Hooper

Mr Cannan stressed he was part of an 'open and transparent government' and hoped to encourage further engagement with the public, pointing out that next month he would speak at a number of post-budget briefings, a radio phone-in and a public meeting.