Tea and biscuits aren't illegal, says Tynwald committee

Offering tea and biscuits at election meetings shouldn't land would-be politicians in court, a Tynwald committee says.

A select committee looking into how polls are run says during the last election candidates were worried they'd be accused of bribing voters by offering refreshments during public meetings.

Offering food or drink to voters is known as "treating" - and is illegal under laws dating back to 1995.

But the committee says tea and biscuits are simple hospitality, and shouldn't mean candidates are prosecuted.

It's now recommending guidance to those standing for election should be updated.