Houghton and Hall regret not turning up to debate

Tue, 24 Apr 2012

MHKs Zac Hall and John Houghton say they regret not turning up to a debate in Tynwald.

The decision to stay away from the chamber last week and not support Education Minister Peter Karran on pre-school closures cost them their jobs in the Department.

Mr Hall has also been suspended from the Liberal Vannin Party.

In a statement they say they didn't want to be dishonest to Tynwald by supporting a policy they couldn't endorse.

They say with consideration for the Minister they decided it was appropriate not to attend and abstain from the vote.

However, they say in hindsight they should have been there and voted.

Mr Hall and Mr Houghton say they've been taught a lesson but say their presence at the debate wouldn't have changed the outcome or saved them their jobs.