Bermuda's two main political parties need to demonstrate a national vision and leadership for the Island elements which are currently lacking, Bermuda Land Development Corporation Chairman Vincent Ingham said yesterday.

"I have said before that there is no national vision for the Island,'' he said. "I think it would be great to hear from each of the political parties over the next several months as to what their vision is for Bermuda. We hear a lot about leadership style, but if I am going to be asked to take a ride with someone, I want to know more about the destination before I get on their train.'' During a speech before the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Bermuda Mr.

Ingham also said there would be a need in the future to change immigration laws and policies to keep international business here. International business would become the new power brokers on the Island in the year 2010.

Mr. Ingham chose Bermuda in 2010 as his topic.

He predicted that during the next two elections there would be a change in Government. Such a change would be a sign of Bermuda's political maturity.

"I find it a fascinating topic and love brainstorming what issues will come up with a change in Government,'' he said. "Quite frankly I see it as another important step in us attaining political maturity before we take on over the next 12 years the thorny subject of independence.'' One of problems with a change in Government would be the response of an entrenched Civil Service constrained by regulations of their own making.

"There will no doubt be some trying moments,'' he said. "Changes in policy will be one thing, but what about some of the personalities involved. Wow. The agents of change will certainly have their hands full.'' He also warned that the Island's leadership would have to consider how to balance the need for growth with the increasing power of the international business sector.

"I certainly can remember the references that were made to our own Forty Thieves and the power that prevailed in Bermuda's yacht clubs not so long ago,'' Mr. Ingham said. "I believe that by the year 2010 the power brokers in Bermuda will come from the ranks of the large international companies in Bermuda. They will pose certain challenges to the Island because these individuals may not have any sense of belonging to the Island. To foster their personal commitment which I see as vital to Bermuda's self interest, I predict that our immigration laws and policies will undergo some fairly drastic reforms by year 2010.'' Mr. Ingham called on Bermudians to change their way of thinking to be more open to future changes and adapt.

"I propose that we start with a vision for year 2010,'' he said. "Because if we have a common purpose, than maybe we can find ways to work better with each other.'' Also yesterday, Mr. Ingham told The Royal Gazette that Morgan's Harbour Investment Ltd. (MHIL), the company picked to develop an upscale resort at the former US Naval Air Annex, had not been able to secure financing for the $250 million project. MHIL had been chosen after a bidding process among several contenders.

Full story: Page 1 Mr. Vincent Ingham Ingham's predictions for 20 10 Change in government; Change in immigration laws and polices; International busienss becomes new power brokers