There are no plans to set up a fund for government to buy properties of national importance.

Chief Minister Howard Quayle, who this week told the House of Keys that the government had sold off more than £2 million-worth of ’surplus property’ since the 2016 general election, rejected the suggestion after it was put to him by Jason Moorhouse (Arbory, Castletown and Malew).

’Procedures already exist to support the acquisition of land and property where it is deemed to be of sufficient importance,’ said Mr Quayle.

’Departments may identify a requirement for funds for property acquisition through the normal capital programme.’

He added: ’It is recognised that, from time to time, opportunities to acquire property arise outside of the normal capital planning programme.

’In such cases where significant urgency and importance are identified, an application may be made to the Treasury to utilise the land and property acquisition reserve or to seek advice on other suitable funds.’

On that basis, he said, there were no plans to set up a new fund.

Mr Moorhouse’s question follows public concern at the proposed sale, this year, of the former police station in Castletown, and last year’s controversial sale of Ramsey courthouse.

Some people have also suggested that the state should buy the Castle Mona Hotel.