Government House is still awaiting advice from the Britain on whether sanctions imposed by the European Union (EU) on Cuba will affect Bermuda's plans to have closer cultural links with the Communist regime.

The EU sanctions include scaling back cultural ties with Fidel Castro's government is protest at the recent execution of three hijackers and jailing of 75 dissidents and independent journalists.

Deputy Governor Tim Gurney said yesterday that the Foreign and Commonwealth Office had still not informed Bermuda about any impact the sanctions may have on the memorandum of understanding on cultural affairs the Island wants to sign with Cuba.

When asked if she had any comment yesterday, Premier Jennifer Smith said: "No. The UK speaks for Bermuda on foreign affairs."