Speaking following his election by a 31-2 Tynwald vote, Mr Gelling pledged to increase the emphasis placed by the government on clean and transparent business practices, explaining that:

"To address any concerns about our system and culture of Government, I would like to see a renewed emphasis on existing initiatives in such areas as corporate governance and freedom of information. It is essential that we discuss these issues and reach a clear understanding of the proper extent of government transparency, for example, taking into account international standards and the position in other modern democracies."

He continued:

"Those of us who live and work on the Isle of Man know that its people and its Government are straight-talking and honest, but we have been through a bruising time. That should not detract from the fact that the Isle of Man is a strong success story in economic terms. We are a business-friendly Island, determined to maintain high ethical standards in economic, political and administrative affairs."

The new Chief Minister went on to conclude that:

"My priorities are to ensure continuity of economic success coupled with confidence in standards in the Isle of Man, both here on the Island and internationally."