Uncertainty surrounds candidates ahead of chief minister nomination deadline

Names need to be in by 12pm

Nominations for the role of chief minister close at 12pm today (6 October).

But how many candidates will put themselves forward, and who they will be, remains far from certain.

It seems even some potential nominees are still undecided.

The only MHK to have publicly indicated he would put his name forward, if he could secure sufficient support, is Onchan MHK Rob Callister.

His manifesto was circulated last week but Mr Callister has stressed that he needs assurances from fellow MHKs that he has enough support to justify formally entering the contest. 

Yesterday (5 October) he was still gauging which MHKs would back his candidacy.

However, Mr Callister has now confirmed he has not gained enough support to progress, something he admits is 'disappointing'. 

Meanwhile, Chris Thomas has told Manx Radio he's working towards submitting his nomination before the deadline.

Candidates must submit a manifesto, along with the names of a proposer and seconder, to the Speaker of the House of Keys David Ashford by midday.

How many candidates will ultimately come forward remains unclear. 

Two or three candidates are thought to be possible, although the uncertainty surrounding the contest means that could change before the deadline.

MHKs are then expected to be informed of the nominations within two hours, with details made public later this afternoon.

If there is a contested election, the vote will take place on 13 October.

John Moss has this report: