Yes, saw this too. Plenty of people seem to think that the ACU wants to kill the Manx. Not ever considered entering it myself, but can't understand the rationale behind it.
" For the 2006 Manx GP all riders must have competed satisfactorily in at least three meetings between the 1st October 2005 and 30th April 2006 (supporting records to be produce with Licence Application)"
Sounds like a cunning plan to fill up late and early race meetings to me-plus of course getting an extra £25 into ACU coffers-rather like their idea for a £25 trackday licence!