The United Bermuda Party's (UBP) most senior working politician, Maxwell Burgess, yesterday revealed why he failed to challenge for the vacant leadership of the party.

He said he would consider the role in future but denied his new floating role, advising colleagues, meant he was being lined up for the top spot further down the line.

He told The Royal Gazette: "I am not aware of being groomed for leader but what I will say is that if required in future that it is something I would have to consider.

"But let's not be mistaken. At this time it's Grant Gibbons and I am satisfied the country needs him and he will do a good job.

"I didn't stand for the leadership because I believe we have someone who has an appreciation for economic challenges which beset not just Bermuda but the whole world.

"When I looked around that room I didn't hesitate to come to the conclusion that Grant Gibbons is the man." He said he had worked closely with Dr. Gibbons during the hand over of air operations by the Americans. "We have a mutual respect and working history." Mr. Burgess also ruled himself out of the role of deputy leader and refused to say whether a decision had been taken on the vacant number two position.

He denied his roving role would undermine the new deputy leader. He said: "A leader brings his vision. He will rely on a number of people for that. I am just saying I will be a part of that group of people who will help shape the vision.Asked whether his experience would have been better used taking on a heavyweight ministry Mr. Burgess said he had been Minister of Youth, Sport and Recreation, and Transport, Public Safety, which would garner the respect of the population.

"I will be available to give my counsel and guidance as the most senior member of the caucus to the leader."

Mr. Burgess will also try to make sure colleagues stick to the party's position and don't make policy on the run.

"If the Shadow minister is uncertain they know they can get hold of me to guide them through. In some cases I will vet stuff. We want to put out a coherent message so 36 hours later you don't have the party trying to distance itself from what had been said."