Taxi operators are set to get in the driving seat on Government's transport policy, The Royal Gazette can reveal.

For taxi owner/operators are likely to play a large part in new Minister Ewart Brown's transport blueprint for the future.

And industry representatives may find themselves on boards and committees connected to transportation in bigger numbers than ever before.

Dr. Brown yesterday was staying tight-lipped over his plans for today's Throne Speech round-up in the House of Assembly.

But he said: "I have a major message directed to the taxi industry in Bermuda.

"This Government is taking new and fresh initiatives to gain the support of the taxi industry.

"We think if we can work together, much of the moaning and groaning which has characterised the taxi industry will come to a halt.'' The PLP in Opposition called for tax breaks on fuel and parts to assist taxi drivers.

But Dr. Brown said: "We won't be talking in a lot of detail about Customs duties or revealing a lot of specifics because these things have to be sorted out.'' He added: "The previous Government usually learned of taxi problems through incidents, little fires that had to be put out.

"But we want the taxi industry's ideas and creativity as opposed to their solutions for immediate problems.'' The news came as MPs are expected to finish the marathon Throne Speech debate today.

The Opposition United Bermuda Party will start off the day, with Dr. Brown the first Government speaker.

Government Whip Ottiwell Simmons said: "I'm expecting the UBP should be putting in one of theirs first -- but exactly who that is, I don't know.'' Dr. Brown will then discuss Government's plans for the Island's transport system.

Mr. Simmons said: "I expect the debate will be completed tomorrow and any announcements on the future agenda will be made.'' He added that he did not expect any legislation to be tabled at today's sitting.

MPs will also give the second and third readings to two items of legislation -- supplementary estimates from the financial years 1995-96 and 1996-97.

The Royal Gazette reported last week that an extra $4.6 million was given to hospitals, Police and public transport in 1996-97.

But the year still showed a current account surplus of $10 million.

A large slice of the 96-97 cash -- a total of $3.5 million -- was spent on unbudgeted work at the Airport.

A $2 million cash injection went into the Airport's retail plan, which upgraded facilities, roof work and ramp lighting cost an extra $340,000.

The supplementary estimates are for money spent over and above the funds voted at the last Budget, revealed in February.

Brown plots new course for transport: Page 7