Tynwald Day has been marked at the heart of the UK Parliament for the first time, with a special reception held at Speaker’s House in Westminster.
Hosted by Speaker of the House of Commons Sir Lindsay Hoyle MP, last week’s brought together UK parliamentarians, diplomats, Crown Dependency representatives and Isle of Man business leaders.
Sir Lindsay described Tynwald’s open‑air ceremony at St John’s as a powerful symbol of a democratic tradition that “remains alive today”, reflecting on his own family’s close ties to the island.
He said the Isle of Man’s distinct identity, laws and traditions sit alongside deep bonds of “friendship, loyalty and service” with the UK, adding that the reception was about ensuring the Island “continues to be heard and understood here in Westminster”.
Tynwald President Laurence Skelly MLC and Speaker Juan Watterson SHK represented the island’s parliamentary traditions, with the event sponsored by Andrew Rosindell MP and Al Pinkerton MP of the Isle of Man All‑Party Parliamentary Group.
More than 200 guests attended the reception, which organisers plan to make an annual celebration.
Chief Minister Alfred Cannan MHK highlighted the island’s political, cultural and economic links with the UK, including £2 billion in annual trade and the Crown Dependencies’ role in channelling over 10% of foreign direct investment into the UK.
