Bermuda Regiment.

Under the new Defence Amendment Act 1998, those who do not agree with military service will be able to channel their energies into another section of public service.

During the bill's second reading, Home Affairs Minister Maxwell Burgess said an alternative is being developed with the Fire Service and other options will become available.

In addition the act will allow for students to defer their military service, a right of appeal for those involved in disciplinary proceedings and Regiment custodial sentences will be served at Warwick Camp.

Alex Scott , Shadow Home Affairs Minister, talked of recent internal problems at the Bermuda Regiment, particularly those involving the make-up of the leadership.

He mentioned a recent letter published in The Royal Gazette , regarding the Regiment, but was forbidden from speaking about it by the Speaker, Ernest De Couto, who said it was a classified matter.

Mr. Scott added that a PLP Government would look at extending the role of the Regiment within the community.

Quinton Edness (UBP) said it was good for conscientious objectors to be able to do some other service, but stay in the Regiment.

Reginald Burrows (PLP) said black soldiers should be promoted to senior positions, since the majority of the officers were white and the main part of the Regiment was black.

"When they are not, it causes problems within the ranks,'' he said.

"Whenever an opportunity arises to promote a black soldier to a senior position, that should be done.'' Paula Cox (PLP) said she would like to see a national youth corps and an increase in women in the service.

Mr. Burgess agreed the Regiment's leadership should reflect the racial make-up of the whole unit.

"The present situation is unhealthy,'' he said. "I will do what I can to see we get this matter off the front pages, into a working relationship and settle any disputes that might exist.''