Economic Development Minister John Shimmin has been explaining why a counter-proposal from the Manx Motor Cycle Club for a new race format from 2013 was not viable.

Government is planning to reduce the festival to 10 days, with the emphasis on classic bikes.

Racing will take place over the August Bank Holiday weekend and the TT title will be used as the meeting is rebranded.

Mr Shimmin was answering a question from Middle MHK Howard Quayle in Tynwald, and then faced a further 25 minutes of questions from other members of the court.

He says the club's proposal was considered but wouldn't work as it had all the same races as now, albeit in the proposed shorter format.

Mr Shimmin admits there is some risk but says all the commercial stakeholders are in favour of the changes and his department has the expertise and experience to deliver:






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