The speech has often been referred to in the current Independence debate.

And today The Royal Gazette reminds Bermudians of the key points of that speech.

In it, Britain's Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State at the Foreign and Commonwealth office urged Bermuda not to rush into cutting ties.

He also touched on a key issue -- the number of Bermudians who would have to support Independence before it came a reality.

Mr. Eggar declared: "We do not intend actively to encourage any dependency to seek Independence.

"But nor will we discourage you if that is your choice. Our responsibility, which we bear to the people of Bermuda, and to Parliament in Westminster, is simple.

"Our only test is to be certain that any such choice is the expression of the clear wish and will of government and people.'' Mr. Eggar said the responsibility for the Island was different. Bermudians had to decide: How the values and traditions they held dear could best be safe-guarded; and How their freedoms, prosperity and security could be protected; "And you will be concerned, of course, not just for this generation, or the next, but for generations to come.

"You would, I am sure not wish us to make these decisions for you. They are for you to consider deeply and we wish you well while you do so.'' Mr. Eggar's speech came as Independence -- as now -- topped the political agenda.

He pointed out Britain's obligations ran in two directions.

Firstly, to Bermuda and other dependent territories. And also to the British Parliament, to which MPs were accountable.

"We have recently looked with particular care at the powers reserved to the British Government.

"In Bermuda these relate primarily to defence, to internal security, and to foreign affairs.

"An assured guarantee of internal security and defence against external threat is vital to your future.

"It is a responsibility which must be met squarely and unequivocally.

Ultimately it is the UK which, under present constitutional arrangements, offers that safeguard.

"It follows that we retain operational control, through His Excellency the Governor, over the Bermuda Regiment and the police.

"His Excellency would be the essential point of command and coordination of your defences.

"I am speaking of contingencies which are remote but we cannot responsibly assume that they can never arise.

"In the diplomatic sphere it falls to us to defend Bermudian interests. The international community does not formally recognise dependent territories.

"We therefore negotiate and adhere to international agreements on your behalf.

"Differences can arise, although they have mercifully few in the past.

Bermudians are welcome in our delegations to major conferences.

"But final responsibility cannot be divided. The UK must have the ultimate authority to fulfil commitments we enter into under international law.'' In an interview with the Press, Mr. Eggar said Britain would accept Independence decided by a referendum or general election.

"It should meet our taste. It's our judgment. We have to take account of the political background against which a referendum takes place.'' He added a low turn-out in either a referendum or general election might convince London support for Independence was equally low.

ROAD CLOSED TFC North Shore Road in Devonshire between Barker's Hill Roundabout and Dock Hill will be closed today and tomorrow, the Works Ministry said yesterday.

The closure is necessary to make room for the dismantling of the Tower crane used for the construction of the Tynes Bay incinerator.

Area residents have access via the Dock Hill entrance.