Shimmins' comments an 'insult to residents of the Isle of Man'

MHK criticised for Media Development Fund remarks

An MHK says she 'violently disagrees' with one of her colleague's attempts to bury an investigation into massive losses by the Media Development Fund.

The fund, linked to the Island's film industry and government's deal with Pinewood Studios, lost more than £26 million of taxpayers' money.

During a Tynwald debate on whether or not a select committee should be set up to look into the matter, Middle MHK Bill Shimmins told members he thought it shouldn't be done, as it was in the past.

South Douglas MHK Kate Beecroft, who called for the committee to be established, was incredulous at his comments.

Members finally voted for the Public Accounts Committee to take a look into the issue and decide whether further action was needed.