has been blasted as "divisive'' by a leading campaigner for independence.

And, at a public meeting at St. Paul's Centennial Hall last night, attorney Phil Perinchief urged the new Government to hold a referendum on independence.

Mr. Perinchief was one of five guest speakers called to debate the question: British Citizenship or Independence -- What's Your Choice?'' Addressing a crowd of more than 150 people, Mr. Perinchief, who stood as an Independent candidate at the last election, also denounced the Island's two main political parties for not taking a position on the issue prior to the election.

"Why were the positions of both the PLP and the UBP kept silent from the people of Bermuda when they gave their reviews to the British Government?'' Mr. Perinchief asked.

"Someone has to take responsibility and these two groups, the PLP and UBP, went over to the UK and they were told to keep silent.

"In its present form the White Paper is extremely divisive because it can create two or three classes of citizen. If you accept it you are a UK citizen, if you reject it you are a UK Overseas Territory Citizen and if you are a newcomer you may apply for long term citizenship.

"Until we can play an integral part in the making of our own decisions we will always be at the beck and call of Britain.

"Doesn't it make you feel like children? It's time we grew up, in fact it's past time.'' Mr. Perinchief also criticised Bermuda's constitution, saying that it gave the Governor "draconian powers'' which the White Paper does not address.

Finishing his presentation with a fresh call for a referendum, Mr. Perinchief said: "A referendum is a vehicle with a destination and if our destination is to find out whether or not people wish independence or citizenship then a referendum is the most cost effective way to do it.

"Referendums are designed to bring about yes or no answers, they don't have political stripes, so let's not get caught up in the politicalisation of something that's above politics.''