Chairman Mr. Gary Pitman admitted "lengthy and sometimes contentious discussions'' in the ruling party.

But he slammed "a vocal group of anonymous critics'' for making "personal attacks'' on Premier the Hon. Sir John Swan.

Consensus in the party was in favour of its leader and the drive for "information and education'' on Independence, he said.

Mr. Pitman's comments followed last week's revelation that some UBP members, disturbed by Government's plan for an Independence referendum, are saying it is time for the Premier to step down.

UBP MPs, speaking on condition they would not be named, told The Royal Gazette on Thursday that the Premier's surprise move on Independence had led to bad feelings and damaged party morale.

Echoing comments made on Friday by Health Minister the Hon. Quinton Edness, Mr. Pitman denied Sir John was under pressure to resign.

"The party continues to be strongly in support of his leadership and has every confidence in his ability to direct the Government.

"His energy and vision will allow the UBP Government to continue to identify opportunities and solve problems on behalf of all Bermudians.

"Regarding Independence information and education, we must not forget that the Premier brought this issue forward on behalf of Cabinet and the UBP caucus.

"The party has not veered from its initial support for a Commission of Inquiry to be followed by a referendum.

"While it is true that not every member of the party and Government supports this plan, some of those who do not have taken actions appropriate to their position and have made their opinions known, as is their right.'' However, said Mr. Pitman, UBP policy was made by consensus, which was supportive of the Premier, the commission and the referendum.

"The UBP is the only political party that represents a true cross-section of the community.

"While this diversity remains its inherent strength, it also leads to lengthy and sometimes contentious internal discussions on important issues.

This process should not be mistaken for instability.

"Every UBP member has a right to a personal opinion about the appropriateness of Independence. However, the party believes that while these personal opinions are important, they should not be allowed to block the information-gathering and educational process.

"We regret that a vocal group of anonymous critics has used the issue of Independence to attack the Premier personally.

"Unfortunately, they are diverting public attention from the real issue at hand, which is the need for an update of Independence information.''