No threat from EU reforms

The Chief Minister says research by the Manx Parliament's legal advisors shows the Isle of Man is unlikely to by affected by the proposed European Reform Treaty.

During Tynwald questions yesterday Michael MHK David Cannan claimed the treaty could lead to the Island's working hour regulations and social security arrangements becoming open to EU influence.

But Brussels-based firm White and Case is confident the ERT, which still has to be ratified, won't affect Protocol Three, the act of accession which defines the the Island's relationship with the EU.

And Mr Brown says working hour regulations here COULD be influenced by Europe, but not by this treaty: