The government may be forced to bring forward rules to allow the licensed cultivation of medicinal cannabis - and its export - before the end of the year.

Tynwald members will have the chance to back a motion that would demand Health Minister David Ashford brings forward the regulations by November.

The motion, by Ramsey MHK Dr Alex Allinson, follows a public consultation that found 95% in favour of allowing cannabis to be processed and cultivated in the island.

The consultation on medicinal use of cannabis also found 55% supported offering quality assured medicinal cannabis through accredited dispensaries, while 62% were in favour of restricting access to medicinal cannabis to those over-18, except in clearly defined exceptions.

Mr Ashford revealed last month he had already been approached by companies interested in the possibility of licensed production of medicinal cannabis.

Talks among health chiefs on the next move are set to take place this summer.

As we report below, the minister told the House of Keys two weeks ago that he would ’hope to come forward with an update to Tynwald’ in October.

Mr Ashford has acknowledged there was a clear public appetite for a rule change on cannabis.

But Dr Allinson’s motion, if approved, would put greater pressure on the government to adhere to a narrow timeline.

The motion notes the outcome of the consultation and would direct that Mr Ashford should ’lay regulations at or before the November 2019 sitting of Tynwald enabling the licensed cultivation of cannabis for medicinal use and export’.