Open Skies policy not top of agenda

The Island’s Open Skies policy is not a top priority for the government as it prepares to enter into talks with Flybe.

That’s according to the Chief Minister who says whilst it will be dealt with in future it is not his top concern.

He was quizzed on the matter in Tynwald yesterday after the news that Flybe would be closing its base at Ronaldsway with the loss of 50 jobs.

East Douglas MHK Brenda Cannell asked him what he would do if the airline said it would reverse its decision if the policy was reconsidered.

Allan Bell says that is purely hypothetical and not his focus: