Minister announces 2019 Budget

Treasury Minister, MHK Alf Cannan, has been delivering the 2019 Budget in Tynwald today.

Among the many figures, Personal Income Tax Allowance has risen to £14,000 and a new Manx State Pension will be introduced from April 1 at £184.15 per week.

A £1-million top up has been given to the government Brexit Fund lifting the total to £2.5million - meanwhile, a National Insurance Holiday Scheme has been introduced for employees moving to the Island for work and for Manx students returning after completing their studies.

A new Community Fund has been brought in to match-fund initiatives supporting the Islands UNESCO biosphere status - The £250,000 pot will be managed by the Manx Lottery Trust.

A five-year capital investment programme of £479million is also on the agenda - this will encompass projects including the Douglas Promenade Walkway, works to develop the Isle of Man Ferry Terminal in Liverpool and the development of Jurby.