The Isle of Man Government says it hasn't signed a lease with the Isle of Man Steam Packet Co. for the new £70m ferry terminal in the Port of Liverpool yet.

In the Tynwald (parliament) this week, Treasury Minister, Alex Allinson faced questions about the facility located at the Princes Half-Tide Dock, where the seasonal fast-ferry Manannan recently carried out berthing trials.

Later this year, the flagship Manxman, which serves Douglas-Heysham, is to conduct trials at the terminal on Merseyside, where the existing terminal is located downriver at the Landing Stage at Liverpool’s famous waterfront.

Among the questions asked in the Tynwald came from the Central Douglas MHK, Chris Thomas, who wanted to know how much the government-owned Steam Packet would pay, in addition to the duration of the deal.

To listen, click on 3FM’s audio link, as Dr. Allinson revealed no agreement had been signed yet on the lease as negotiations remain ongoing.