Cannan accuses Hooper of 'gaslighting' Tynwald with 'fabricated' health comments

Chief Minister describes claims he wants to privatise healthcare as a 'falsehood'

The chief minister has urged politicians to 'stop the gaslighting' as he hit back against accusations made by the former health minister.

Lawrie Hooper resigned his position within the Council of Ministers yesterday claiming CoMin was intent on privatising healthcare.

In Tynwald this morning (16 October) Mr Cannan accused Mr Hooper of 'fabricating' the issue and described his resignation speech as a "stitch up".

Gaslighting is defined as a manipulative action of tricking or controlling someone by making them believe things that are not true.

Mr Cannan's comments raised concerns from some members in the chamber with President Laurence Skelly urging the chief minister to 'curtail the language'.

Mr Cannan went on to say the Ramsey MHK wants tax rises and unlimited funding for health:

Mr Hooper is one of several members not present in the chamber today.

Rushen MHK Michelle Haywood felt the chief minister's comments weren't necessarily fair:

Mr Hooper has responded to Mr Cannan's remarks on social media:

Pretty desperate last ditch attempt

Absolutely incredulous behaviour from someone who is supposed to be a leader

Not unexpected though and hopefully it shows what I’ve been up against

Are his Ministers are willing to stand behind someone who behaves like this? https://t.co/RjnI79RpXG

— Lawrie Hooper MHK (@LawrieHooper) October 16, 2024