Union call for Budget to help low paid

A union leader is calling on the Treasury minister to improve the lot of the Island's lowest paid workers in Tuesday's Manx Budget.

Regional officer for Unite Eric Holmes says official government data shows a significant number of those at the bottom of the pay ladder are spending more than they earn - partly due to wage freezes.

And he says the figures also show many in full-time jobs have just £35 per month left over, after paying all the bills. 

Mr Holmes says Treasury Minister Eddie Teare could raise more low-paid people out of income tax altogether, by increasing the tax threshold for individuals.

He says Tuesday's budget should provide desperately needed relief for society's poorest: