The Progressive Labour Party faces an uphill task convincing young people the racial animosity is all in the past as it prepares for its last few months under Premier Ewart Brown, according to former Senator Davida Morris.

Ms Morris — who has frequently spoken about her generation's tiredness at the PLP's use of the racecard under Dr. Brown — said she believes the rhetoric will be toned down under his likely replacement Paula Cox.

But she warned her party, which she represented as one of the Island's youngest ever Senators until two years ago, will find it difficult restoring faith with young people.

"I don't think they'll be able to convince people, black or white, that there is no racial animosity, which alienates many in the younger generation," Ms Morris told The Royal Gazette.

"The public still expects better behaviour from their politicians and still wants change. PLP MPs who were not vocal during the height of the animosities can still be painted with the same brush. Silence is acquiescence."

However, she praised Ms Cox, whom many in the PLP tip to replace Dr. Brown at a delegates conference in October, saying: "Not only does her countenance exude dignity but her actions are always ethical and show care for the entire Bermuda population, not just a specific segment. Would there be less racially infused speech? Yes."

Ms Morris said the party had so far shown an inability to address social issues, but said some fresh people currently emerging in the ranks had the talent and approach to start to make a difference.

"At the forefront of my mind is (Pembroke MP) Michael Weeks," she said. "I've worked with him — he's a good person, with strong integrity and a positive role model for young black men who cares about Bermuda."