Villa and Gaiety options to be examined

It's unclear if there is any political will to privatise the Gaiety Theatre and Villa Marina.

Leisure Minister Tim Crookall was questioned on the subject in Tynwald by David Callister MLC, who suggested looking at alternative ways to operate the complex.

Mr Crookall said his department had an open mind and would consider all options after the scope of government had been examined next spring.

He also said there was no need to appoint a 'professional theatre manager' as they already had one with worldwide experience.

The Gaiety Theatre and Villa Marina complex is run by the Manx government at an annual deficit of £1.3 million.