is about to be considered by a special Government-appointed committee, its author disclosed yesterday.

All teenagers from both public and private schools would be automatically conscripted into the Community Service Corps, Sandys South UBP hopeful Mr. Ted Gauntlet said.

He believed the corps would foster self worth in Bermuda's teenagers and go far to reduce such social ills as drug abuse, sex crimes, racism, theft and pack racing.

Youngsters would partake in community service, sports activities, fitness and a wide scope of educational programmes.

The corps would be run similarly to the Bermuda Regiment, but would be "totally non-weapons oriented'', he said. Emphasis would be on self-defence and self-worth "rather than preparation for destruction''.

Furthermore, he said, the Island's vagrants, whom he described as "potentially useful citizens'' would be coopted into it.

Mr. Gauntlett, an estate agent and chartered surveyor, suggested Daniel's Head, being vacated by the Canadian Forces, would be the ideal location for the youth corps headquarters.

And it could be funded by a national lottery, possibly even a casino, or a bank "community defence bond'' plus donations from the business community.

"I believe such a worthy cause would be an ideal rationale for now initiating a Government-run lottery,'' he said.

But efforts would have to be made to protect the economically disadvantaged.

He suggested financial situations of those who want to gamble be evaluated and if they could afford it, they be given a special credit card allowing them to try their luck.

Mr. Gauntlett said his plan, similar to the US Peace Corps, already had the support of Premier the Hon. Sir John Swan and the Cabinet.

Sir John was in the process of appointing a committee, including representatives of the Police, Bermuda Regiment and youth organisations, to decide whether it should be implemented, and if so, how, he said.

Mr. Gauntlett made the disclosure in response to a Progressive Labour Party proposal this week for a similar national youth corps.

The Opposition proposed a corps that was not necessarily compulsory, but would offer career opportunities and guidance to prevent young people turning to drugs and crime.

It would be linked to Police and military training and instruction in trades would also be given.

PLP leader Mr. Frederick Wade said such a corps had featured in his party's platform since 1980.

He wanted to expand on the idea in response to interest generated by constituents -- and "the harsh realities as to the grim choices many of our young people are making.'' "This week alone we heard of some who have reportedly chosen prostitution,'' Mr. Wade said.

Mr. Gauntlett, however, said that after 13 years of the idea supposedly being on the party's platform, he was "still left wondering'' how the PLP would put it into practice.

"For example, will it be compulsory or not?,'' he asked, adding the PLP had not stated what the ages of attendance would be.

Mr. Gauntlett said he believed the corps would have to be compulsory if it was to "catch the very youngsters who so desperately need positive direction''.

Mr. Gauntlett said he further differed with the PLP on the question of the corps being linked to the Regiment and Police.

He felt it should be separate from the two, because the Regiment was "founded on principles of destruction of people and property in combat circumstances...''.

Sir John called Mr. Gauntlett's proposal "a comprehensive, well thought-out proposal''.

It could have a beneficial impact on providing positive work experiences for a number of Bermuda's young men in particular, he said.