Govt-owned companies could be questioned by public in future

Six new government-owned companies should come under Freedom of information laws, according the Council of Ministers.

A report due to be considered by Tynwald says the Steam Packet Company, Manx Development Corporation, Isle of Man Meat Company and Cinemanx could face questions from the public in future.

Nimbus Medical Holdings - funded by the Enterprise Development Scheme and majority-owned by the Department for Enterprise - and a dormant company called Treaco would also fall under the legislation, if Tynwald members approve.

The Council of Ministers says as well as widening the bodies which can face requests, charges for requests should also be looked at.