newspaper over an interview with the former leader of the Opposition youth wing.

Angry Works and Engineering Minister C.V. (Jim) Woolridge yesterday alleged statements made in the article were defamatory.

And he has already demanded an apology and retraction from Bermuda Sun editor Tom Vesey over the article in the bi-weekly.

Mr. Woolridge contacted the newspaper after it carried statements involving him and his Works and Engineering portfolio in an opinion article.

The allegations, which involved the sale of Government houses, were printed a few weeks ago in an article on the calibre of the Island's politicians.

Mr. Woolridge said yesterday: "As the editor of a paper, he should have proof-read it to make sure people are not unfairly castigated.

"My reputation is very important to me -- I don't have any skeletons in my closet.

"It is Mr. Vesey's responsibility if his paper prints irresponsible statements without proofing them.'' The veteran Smith's South MP was appointed to the Works and Engineering portfolio in a Cabinet reshuffle last year.

He also spent many years as Tourism Minister before being pushed out of Cabinet in 1995 following his hard-line anti-Independence stance over then-Premier Sir John Swan's Referendum on the issue.

The allegedly offending article, an interview with ex-Progressive Labour Party youth wing chief Troy Symonds, was written by a staff reporter and carried under the Viewpoint logo in mid-May.

Mr. Woolridge is understood to have already contacted a lawyer and spoken to Mr. Vesey by telephone to complain.

The Minister confirmed: "I have asked him to clarify, verify and I require from him a full explanation.'' But Mr. Woolridge stopped short of saying he would definitely be seeking damages in the courts.

He said: "I might require an apology and retraction -- or I will have to take a second look at it.'' Mr. Vesey yesterday declined to comment on the row.

He said: "If Mr. Woolridge has any difficulties with the Bermuda Sun then he should discuss them with the Bermuda Sun.

"I'm not going to discuss it -- it would be inappropriate.'' NEWSPAPER NJ E