Keys hopefuls tend not to raise difficult and divisive issues.

They are either unaware of them or know that these questions could alienate potential voters.

But what if a well informed candidate was brave enough to say the things that many would rather not hear?

Their alternative manifesto might look something like the list below.

Whatever your views, this agenda flags up important issues that we should at least be talking about.

Put your candidates on the spot by asking if they agree with the following statements. See if you can get yes or no answers.

TAXES

Taxes will have to go up to pay for the inevitable rise in the cost of health and social care, and for climate change measures.

The alternative is deep cuts in other government spending.

The public will tolerate larger tax bills only if they can see the system is fair, that everyone is paying their share, and that departments are not wasting money.#

DRUGS

Drugs are the biggest threat to our safe society, as the chief constable has repeatedly warned.

The culture of ’county lines’ criminality spreading out from big cities can destroy lives and communities, and it has reached the Isle of Man.

Previous government complacency left the door open to this evil. We must maintain strict border checks and take joined-up action across all agencies.

HOUSING

We need more housing because an obvious shortage of supply is causing a crisis. Urban redevelopment is part of the solution but some greenfield sites will still be required.

The priority has to be young families who need a home, not Nimbys worried about their view and their equity.

The effect on the market of buy-to-let, planning restrictions and land ownership/control should all be investigated.

POPULATION

We need more people but only those who can help build our economy and society, so it’s time to look at residence control.

We have to embrace change while protecting the island’s essential character.

The best of the Manx countryside could be ring-fenced as a national park, with right to roam access throughout.

There should be renewed emphasis on the island identity in education. Heritage has to be recognised as a core social and economic asset, not a quaint sideshow.

ENVIRONMENT

We should be clear about the climate change agenda because the public may not realise the full implications of a maximum response.

These could include obliterating the Manx landscape with onshore windfarms and foregoing billions in potential revenue if extractable gas is found under our territorial waters. Sacrifices on this scale must be properly explained.

MHKs are unaccountable as a body of national politicians.

The government they form has no policy mandate, makes no clear commitments to the people, and is not held collectively responsible for its performance.

ACCOUNTABILITY

The next Council of Ministers should produce a non-technical manifesto addressed to the public, followed by annual updates and an end of term report independently audited by a scrutiny committee.

This would enhance accountability and help inform election debates.

LOCAL AUTHORITIES

Local authorities are unfit for purpose.

Their structure is outdated, responsibilities are fragmented and some struggle with governance. Public disengagement is making them moribund.

Yet with reform local government could make a real contribution in terms of the environment, sense of community and fair taxation.

SPEED LIMITS

All roads need speed limits. It is shocking that politicians still permit unrestricted speeds on some of our country roads.

They turn a blind eye to death and serious injury because they are scared of spoiling the ’fun’ and profits of the TT festival.

This ought to be a national scandal.