Referendum promise from candidate

Would-be West Douglas MHK Chris Thomas says he’s looking to reform the Island’s parliament – through a direct public vote.

He’s pledging to hold a referendum in April 2016 on whether Legislative Council should be scrapped and direct Tynwald elections held.

Mr Thomas is one candidate contesting the Douglas West by-election next Thursday: the others are Clive Dawson, Quintin Gill, and John Skinner.

Mr Thomas also says he’d reduce the number of politicians in parliament.

But he says before any vote was held, a special body should be set up to consider the options.