Newly elected MHK Andy Saunders says he would like to see the results of votes taken by the Council of Ministers published as part of a more transparent approach to government decision-making.

Mr Saunders, who topped the poll in Douglas East at last month's General Election, said he would consider serving in any position within the new administration if asked.

But he said greater openness around the decisions taken by the Council of Ministers would be one area he would like to see addressed.

The Council currently publishes monthly summaries of its proceedings, outlining matters considered and decisions taken.

Mr Saunders's comments come as the newly elected House of Keys prepares for the formation of a new government following an election which saw 15 new MHKs elected.

The former Licensed Victuallers Association chairman is a familiar face around Douglas, having built his profile through his involvement with Quids Inn on Lock Promenade and the hospitality sector.

Support for the island's hospitality industry was a major part of his campaign for election.

Speaking to Media Isle of Man's Sadie Gilbert shortly after his election was confirmed, Mr Saunders said he was ‘slightly stunned’ by the result.

‘It's been a very difficult fight and I'd just like to thank everybody that's chosen to put their faith in me. I hope I can repay that trust,’ he said.

He thanked his campaign team and those closest to him for their support, before setting out some of the issues he wanted to focus on as an MHK.

‘I can't promise I'll get everything right, but I will fight tooth and nail to make sure that we get as much right as we can,’ he said.

‘The first drive is in housing and the second is supporting our families, making sure we get the education system right.’

Asked about his reputation as a familiar face in the community, he added: ‘I'm a man amongst the people and I always have been.’

Mr Saunders has now joined a significantly changed House of Keys, with 15 of its 24 members entering the chamber for the first time.

The newly elected MHKs were sworn in at the Keys on Tuesday, September 29, before returning that afternoon to elect Douglas North MHK David Ashford as Speaker and Garff MHK Richard Henthorn as Deputy Speaker.

Attention now turns to the formation of the next administration.

Candidates for Chief Minister are due to publish their policy proposals today (Tuesday), October 6.

The House of Keys will then meet on Tuesday, October 13, to nominate the next Chief Minister.

Under the current system, the Chief Minister is nominated by the House of Keys and appointed by the Lieutenant Governor. A candidate needs the support of at least 13 of the 24 MHKs.

The successful candidate will then have to form a Council of Ministers from the new-look House, with the large number of first-time MHKs presenting a fresh challenge when it comes to filling ministerial positions.

For Mr Saunders, however, the question of whether he takes a place around the Council of Ministers table remains open.

He has said he would consider any position, while making clear that greater transparency over how decisions are reached would be something he would like to see from the next administration.