Common rights and long‑standing land covenants would continue to apply if a new One Government Estate Statutory Board is created, the Treasury Minister confirmed.
In Tynwald this morning, Treasury Minister Chris Thomas said the rights “will continue to be respected in the same way as at present,” adding that the draft transfer order includes a clause ensuring all existing rights, obligations and liabilities automatically move to the new board.
He said this was “consistent with general principles of land law” and was included explicitly “to put beyond any doubt” that the exercise is not intended to avoid covenants attached to government‑held land.
Questions of Law & Fact
Arbory, Castletown and Malew MHK Tim Glover challenged the lack of detail, warning the move could enter “a bit of a legal minefield”.
The Minister replied that questions of enforceability were “technical questions of law and fact” and suggested a written question for a fuller response.
Arbory, Castletown and Malew MHK Jason Moorhouse asked whether staff had already been assigned to the proposed body, noting an advert for a facilities manager.
Mr Thomas declined to comment on the Department of Infrastructure’s actions ahead of the debate.
He also clarified that land deemed common under historic disafforestation and allotments legislation, currently vested mainly in DEFA, would retain its status if transferred to the new board.
The full exchange can be listened to here:
