The sun was shining on the grounds of the Cabinet Building for the convening of Parliament, but underneath the big white tent the mood was sombre.

Governor Sir John Vereker began the Throne Speech by remembering those lost during Hurricane Fabian but added a cheerful note that the “spirit of community” after the storm was so remarkable that it should continue into the new Parliamentary session.

There was the traditional pomp and pageantry with Governor and Lady Vereker arriving in the landau and Sir John inspecting the troops. But there was a marked decline in the number of spectators. In past years there have been several school groups on the grounds.

“I like the Bermuda Regiment and when they play,” said eight-year-old Leanna Hall from Southampton Glebe School.

“I learned today that the Government made laws and this started in 1620 and that the Throne Speech is very important,” Leanna added.

“I came because of the tradition,” said Southampton resident Donald Jones.

“I love this venue. I think it's beautiful the way we do it here. I hope the Government will pay attention to the people especially the aged and our young people - they are the ones who will carry this on,” he said.

A London resident who had stumbled on the scene near the end of the speech wondered what was going on.

“This is similar to the opening of Parliament in England but not as formal. It's the same sort of pomp but behind closed doors in England,” said Simon May.

And he pointed out how much more open the whole event was and wondered if the Government in Bermuda was as open.

“There is more security and the circumstances are different in England but it is nice that it is open and this setting is very nice,” Mr. May said.