Poll shows regional favourites for chief minister

Pressure is growing on candidates to declare if they intend to stand as chief minister before the Isle of Man's general election, on September 29.

New research has shown that more than 90 per cent of the public believe voters should know which candidates are interested in the 'top job' before they go to the polls.

The 'Manx People Power' survey of more than 1,000 residents has also revealed that Allan Bell is the current favourite to take over from Tony Brown, who is retiring from politics.

The economic development minister gained 15 per cent support, just ahead of Speaker Steve Rodan.

Treasury Minister Anne Craine was third, with Onchan MHK Peter Karran fourth favourite among the public.

Almost a quarter of respondents didn't know who they wanted.

Marketing expert Hugh Davidson, who commissioned the survey, says there is also a regional breakdown of the results: