Allan Bell comes out on top in chief minister survey

Allan Bell has not confirmed if he will put himself forward for the role of chief minister

The Isle of Man's economic development minister Allan Bell has come out on top in an island-wide survey on who should be the next chief minister.

The research was conducted by Professor Hugh Davidson with the aim of giving Manx people a say in island politics.

The "Manx People Power" survey interviewed more than 1,000 people, 15% of whom voted for Mr Bell.

Speaker Steve Rodan came second with 12%, while Treasury Minister Anne Craine came in third with 11%.

The Isle of Man's new chief minister will be elected by Tynwald in October, after the general elections.

Tony Brown, who currently holds the position, previously announced he would not stand for election in September.

Allan Bell has not confirmed if he will put himself forward for the role of chief minister.

Mr Davidson said almost a quarter of the people interviewed did not know who they would want to take the top political job.

"Currently only members of Tynwald have a vote in the chief minister election but with this survey, politicians at least know what the public think," he said.

"The most important qualities people think the chief minister should have is honesty and transparency, that was followed by good communicator, leadership and good negotiator."