Shimmins to Bow Out

Bill Shimmins MHK has announced he will not contest this year’s General Election.

Mr Shimmins has represented Middle since winning the constituency in 2016. He has also been a political a member of the Treasury since his election.

In a statement he said: ‘After much consideration, I have decided not to stand for the House of Keys election in September. My priority at this stage is to spend more time assisting my family. It has been a great privilege to represent the people of Middle and the island.

‘Whilst I have not achieved all of my objectives, I hope that I have made a positive contribution in a number of areas. I very much appreciate the support and encouragement provided by so many individuals. I will continue to serve until replacements are appointed.’

So far David Fowler and Kerian Hannifin have declared their intention to contest the Middle constituency. With Chief Minister Howard Quayle and now Mr Shimmins both declaring they will not seek re-election, the area will have two new MHKs in September.