night's ABC Primetime Live television broadcast.

The popular US news show is expected to portray the US base as almost a holiday resort for the people working there.

In a promotional preview for Primetime Live the base was described as a "Club Med for the US Navy.'' The broadcast was recorded in November when ABC newsman Mr. Sam Donaldson visited Bermuda.

Mr. Donaldson spent some time filming at the base. He interviewed NAS senior officers including the base commander Capt. Jim Arnold. But he would not reveal details of the project.

However, The Royal Gazette were able to find out that it was tied in with a programme on US President-elect Mr. Bill Clinton's plans to make cuts to the defence budget.

Mr. Donaldson's report could pressure Mr. Clinton to make staffing reductions at overseas bases -- and possibly close some altogether.

Local officials believe the cuts would not affect Bermuda because of the vital role played in the Space Shuttle programme.

But Mr. Donaldson's report is expected to question the use of the base now the Cold War is over.

NAS public affairs officer, Ens. Marie McGahan said she expected that most of the 2,589 military and civil personnel working at the base would tune in to Primetime Live on Thursday.

She confirmed that she had watched the preview and had heard the Club Med comment about the base.

"Before we can comment we will have to watch the show. It would not be wise to say anything before Thursday.

"The promo will have contained things to attract an audience but we do not know the full story yet.

"Mr. Donaldson came here to get a story and I don't think he would have left without one.'' The show will appear on ZFB Channel Seven on Thursday at 11 p.m.