Manx Radio will receive a higher taxpayer‑funded subvention in 2026, even as the station posts another annual loss.
According to figures in the government’s Pink Book, the station’s subvention will rise to £1,388,000 for 2026.
That follows allocations of £1,184,024 in 2025 and £1,127,642 in 2024.
The company’s latest annual report shows Manx Radio posted a £20,392 loss for the financial year ending 31 March 2025.
The Cost of State Owned Radio
A look at the station’s cost structure shows why Manx Radio remains heavily dependent on public funding.
Directors’ remuneration totalled £279,251 for the year, with a further £42,965 paid to trustees and £188,600 in pension costs.
The broadcaster employed an average of 35 staff, and recorded £95,811 in depreciation charges, underscoring the fixed operational expenses that continue to outstrip commercial income.
In its going concern statement, the board says it remains confident the broadcaster has “adequate resources to continue in operational existence for the foreseeable future,” citing ongoing government support and Treasury’s confirmation that it has “no current intention to reduce the level of subvention,” subject to Tynwald approval.
However, the directors also acknowledge that the timing and approval of future subvention payments represents a “material uncertainty” outside the company’s control.
Subvention
The report confirms that Manx Radio received £1,184,024 in public service broadcasting funding for 2024/25, along with £150,000 for Minor Capital Works.
A further £1,360,705 in funding for 2025/26 was approved by Tynwald in February 2025.
Public service broadcasting funding has been subject to periodic review since a 2014 Tynwald Select Committee recommended Treasury maintain support at £850,000 and reassess future allocations as required.
Manx Radio remains wholly reliant on annual subvention decisions to sustain its operations, with future funding levels continuing to depend on Tynwald’s approval.
