The high drama outside the House had some politicians paying scant attention to the more mundane affairs of state in the run-up to the lunch break.

The only reference to the pro-democracy rally during the morning session was from Ren?ee Webb who made a brief appearance inside the chamber to thank the organisers and drum up support. "I'd ask those on the floor of the House to welcome those who are promoting democracy in Bermuda and I would ask members of the public to be there," she said.

Later, as Health Minister Patrice Minors spoke on the detail of the Medical Practitioners Amendment Act, a loud cheer went up from the protesters outside as Ms Webb put in an appearance on the balcony.

While various other MPs wandered out of the chamber to look out at the swelling crowds below, the curiosity was also killing Government MPs who stayed inside the chamber. Party whip Ottiwell Simmons and Education Minister Terry Lister couldn't resist a sneaky peep through the window blinds as more shouts came from outside and the Health Minister continued her valiant efforts to concentrate on the task at hand.

After Ms Minors cut her losses and suggested breaking for lunch at 12.25, a light-hearted debate ensued among MPs wondering whether to leave the House by the front or back door. As they filed out, a traffic jam of MPs including the UBP's Michael Dunkley backed up on the stairs as an anxious TV journalist halted Ms Webb inside the door to make sure there were no obstructions outside to block her grand exit from the cameras.