taxis.

Secretary of the Bermuda Taxi Federation, Joe Brown, said the move would spell more trouble for his industry.

"Government is always thinking of ways to improve things to the detriment of the taxi industry,'' he said.

He was speaking on the eve of the Federation's Annual General Meeting, which takes place tonight at the Bermuda Chamber of Commerce boardroom.

The meeting will see the election of officers. And a decision is expected to be taken on whether to form a separate taxi owners group.

"We will be finding out which direction we will be heading,'' said Mr. Brown.

The suggestion of water taxis was floated in the House of Assembly by several MPs, including Tourism Minister David Dodwell.

They said it was important to be creative in moving visitors around Bermuda.

Opposition MP Trevor Woolridge, however, questioned how many water taxis would be allowed.

And he wondered how many cabbies would be able to trade in a land licence for a water taxi plate.

Asked whether he supported the idea, Mr. Brown last night said: "Absolutely not.'' He added: "I also don't support the idea of buses giving free tours to visitors.

"That is unfair competition. If visitors can afford to come here, they can afford to pay for a ride on the buses.''