Premier Jennifer Smith asked Governor Sir John Vereker to step aside so she could open this year's Annual Exhibition, Government House confirmed yesterday.

The Governor - pictured at the Exhibition with Lady Vereker yesterday - traditionally opens the annual agricultural exhibition show on Thursday, and mystery surrounds why the Premier wanted to do the opening this year.

The Royal Gazette contacted the Department of Communication and Information for an answer, but they were unable to provide one.

Sir John and Lady Vereker were at the show yesterday and Lady Vereker handed out prizes.

Government House Registrar Malcolm Ostler said yesterday: "The Governor stood down at the request of the Premier who asked to open the show this year. He was asked and he said 'fine' and stood aside."