activist Rolfe Commissiong.

And he echoed comments made by ousted Environment Minister Arthur Hodgson, who fears the Progressive Labour Party hierarchy has gone off the idea.

Mr. Commissiong said: "The equivocation and double-speak associated with the topic of independence has to end...

"There is a growing number of MPs both in the Cabinet and outside who are coming out in favour.

"But the leadership is running behind the people on the issue rather than leading -- it's almost pathetic, bearing in mind that this was a party that for almost 30 years had independence as part of its constitution.'' Possible speakers are still being sounded out but the venue is likely to be St. Paul's Centennial Hall with other dates around the Island to follow.

The forums will go under the name Independence Now and will be run by the Citizens for a Better Democracy.

Mr. Commissiong said he hoped Mr. Hodgson would speak but last week Mr.

Hodgson was still unsure.

He said: "I haven't really given it much thought but I am willing to serve.'' Mr. Commissiong said it was time the PLP swallowed its pride and put the issue to a referendum, just like former Premier John Swan had, rather than put it to an election.