Government to prefer local contactors

Up to £50 million of government contracts could be diverted to local businesses each year.

The government's made changes to its contracting policies under World Trade Organisation rules which lets it favour Manx-based companies.

The new policy means up to 94% of government spending could be directed into the local economy.

Treasury minister Dr Alex Allinson says the rules can be changed after Brexit meant we don't have to follow EU law.