A maverick United Bermuda Party member is to stand against Opposition MP Ewart Brown at the next General Election.

Sanders Frith Brown yesterday said the move was in protest at Dr. Brown's US nationality -- which apparently bars him from sitting for his Warwick West constituency.

And he added he is considering mounting a legal challenge over Dr. Brown's eligibility if he retains his seat at the next General Election.

Mr. Frith Brown insisted: "I'm not doing dirty work for the UBP -- this is a matter of principle.

"And -- if he wins -- if someone else doesn't challenge him, I might very well try to do that.'' Mr. Frith Brown said he had already made inquiries about being able to take the matter to court -- and was awaiting an answer from the Attorney General's Chambers.

But it is understood only a sitting MP, a Warwick West constituent or Attorney General Elliott Mottley can challenge an election result on nationality grounds. Mr. Frith Brown lives in Warwick East.

Dr. Brown last night laughed off the prospect of a challenge from Mr. Frith Brown.

And he insisted: "I don't think there is going to be a problem -- my last oath of allegiance was to the Queen and I would never insult the Queen and say my oath does not supercede my oath elsewhere.'' He added: "I intend to rely on the advice of my lawyers and get legal clarification.'' And he hinted the UK Labour Government could be asked to step in in the hope of a ruling in his favour.

He added: "I will not be forced to change my relationship with the US government by Gestapo tactics.'' But he added: "I will never choose any country over Bermuda.'' The move came as United Bermuda Party MP Michael Dunkley -- who gave up US citizenship acquired through his mother -- called on Dr. Brown to dump his American passport or step down from the House of Assembly.

Mr. Dunkley -- elected last year in Devonshire South -- said: "I have a couple of problems here -- in my opinion, if you read the Constitution, it's quite clear he violates it.

And he added: "The Progressive Labour Party have accepted that because they have tried to put motions before the House to rectify the position.

"What really bothers me is that both sides of the House agree that the Constitution is the heart of our good government and that it's served us well.'' IMMIGRATION IMM