One of the favourites to stand in the forthcoming Pembroke West by-election for the PLP last night shrugged off a broadcast news report that he has pulled out of the race.

Although Carvel Vanputten refused to comment directly on statements made by VSB news that he had withdrawn, he said that he was hopeful that he would win the seat for the PLP.

Last night a VSB news report claimed Mr. Vanputten and Scott Pearman had both withdrawn from the contest, forcing public relations officer, Glenn Blakeney, and Senator Calvin Smith to put their names in for consideration.

But Mr. Vanputten said: "I'm one of those that hope to be successful, but I haven't got too much to say,"

The report was also rubbished by Sen. Smith, who said: "I don't know about Blakeney. I know my name isn't in there."

The PLP's Pembroke West branch committee has selected its candidate, according to the party's public relations officer Glenn Blakeney, but on Monday Premier Jennifer Smith declined to say whether the Central Committee had confirmed a candidate.

Last night Mr. Vanputten said that he believed that several others had thrown their hat in the ring and whoever is finally selected will be well supported by a strong branch organisation.

"Whoever runs in that area has good backing - it's looking good in Pembroke West," he said.

"I've been there all my life and I have seen some things grow in the past," he said when asked his reasons. "Change is in the wind." And he couldn't say whether the party's chances would be improved if the NLP doesn't field a candidate. "Personality plays a part in politics in general. At this point it plays an even greater part."

Mr. Vanputten has made three attempts - at two by-elections and the November 1998 general election - to be elected the representative for Pembroke West. His track record makes it almost certain that he will be the PLP's candidate - the party's tradition is to give previously unsuccessful candidates another chance.

In 1998 he came third, with 521 votes, behind Erwin Adderly and Gary Pitman who got 821 and 800 votes respectively.