Bermuda Puts Independence on Its Agenda

[Aidoneus]

Bermuda Puts Independence on Its Agenda
Sun Feb 29, 9:05 PM ET
By MATTHEW TAYLOR, Associated Press Writer

HAMILTON, Bermuda - Bermuda Premier Alex Scott said Sunday the government would begin discussing steps toward independence from Britain.

Speaking at a meeting of his center-left Progressive Labor Party, Scott said islanders should begin discussing if the 22-square-mile mid-Atlantic territory should cut ties with Britain.

"I am suggesting that we come of age as a people and address the subject openly, objectively and nationally," he said, adding that the issue should not be politicized.

"There can be no better time," Scott said. "We are not pressured by a pending general election ... referendum or scheduled constitutional change. Without any pressure we can enter into a relaxed public discussion."

The Labor Party narrowly won re-election last year after long supporting independence.

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