Bermuda may have to pay out for the next Governor's uniform after the Foreign Office said it would no longer pay for the uniforms in any of Britain's 13 dependent territories.

Each Governor is individually fitted in Saville Row in London with a uniform that includes a ceremonial sword, ankle boots with spurs and a plumed helmet.

A Foreign Office spokesperson said territories could retain the uniforms, but they must pay for them themselves.

Deputy Governor, Tim Gurney said yesterday: "The Foreign Office periodically reviews their policy toward diplomatic uniforms and uniforms for Governors in the overseas territories.

"The Foreign Office decided some months ago that they no longer wished to pay for such uniforms, but following consultation with the Governor and his consultation with the Government of Bermuda, the Foreign Office agreed that if Bermuda wished to continue with the tradition of the wearing of a uniform by its Governor, they were perfectly content for Bermuda to continue with the tradition on the understanding that Bermuda would pay for that uniform,".

Mr. Gurney explained that the Governor had two uniforms, a white cotton uniform for summer which includes the distinctive swan-feather plumed hat, and a blue winter uniform.

Mr. Gurney also said the uniform costs significantly less than the 10,000 pounds that is being quoted in some media reports.

Although not certain, Mr. Gurney also said that Bermuda may have been paying for the uniform for some years and added that the Bermuda Government already pays for all of the Governor's expenses

The Governor's annual budget is more than $1 million which covers the cost of running Government House as well as maintaining a staff of 14 people.

The Governor lives rent-free in Government house and is paid a tax-free salary of $146,000 a year, and perks include an official limousine.

Mr. Gurney was not exactly sure how long the current style of uniform has been used, but thought that it could date from around the 1860's, or possibly early last century.

Mr. Masefield, 61 was joined by his wife Jennifer when he replaced Lord Waddington as the Island's Governor in June 1997. He is nearing the end of his appointment, and Mr. Gurney said it was likely a new successor would be named later this year.

A Governor usually completes a three year term, but the appointment is at the pleasure of Her Majesty the Queen.