Let's get on with it as soon as we can.

Amid all the talk created by the suggestion of having a commission and a referendum, much of it created by the UBP itself, Bermudians have forgotten that Sir John Swan has not thrust Independence on an unwilling Bermuda. He has suggested that Bermudians should take a hard look at Independence and then have a deciding democratic vote. There have been complaints about the introduction of Independence to the political agenda but there have been no serious basic complaints about Sir John Swan's ability to continue leading the Country or the United Bermuda Party. He is, after all, a winner.

When any person has been in high office as long as Sir John Swan has, then there is bound to be speculation about his future. It is, of course, generally accepted that he will not lead his party to another general election. But more than that, when politicians see the end of a leader's term they are certain to begin to jockey for position, either for themselves or their favourites. That is inevitable in the Westminster system and it is a large part of what we are seeing.

In reality, the issue is only as deep as the Country's willingness to debate Independence. There are those totally opposed to even the mention of Independence. There are those, polls say a minority, totally in favour of Independence. Some United Bermuda Party leaders think Independence is the way to stay in power. Some think Independence would split the Country well into the next century.

We think that the general public is quite happy to have more information and a debate and a hearing into Independence and then to get on with a referendum.

The problem is the political moves which have been thrown in the way and appear to be attempts to prevent the Country's open discussion of Independence.

This newspaper has maintained from the beginning that Bermuda should get on with the debate and the referendum. Bermuda should decide whether or not it wants Independence at this time so that it can go about its business whatever the result of the referendum.

The indecision, the foot dragging and the lack of action are disruptive socially and politically and give the impression that the Country is in a state of uncertainty. That is bad for internal peace and prosperity and it is bad for overseas business.

Clearly the delays caused by such things as amendments to the legislation are going to take longer to resolve than the Country should have had to endure.

The Premier should appoint as independent a commission as he can find as soon as he legally can. The commission should conduct public hearings and allow people to have their say. It should be asked to report as quickly as possible so that Bermuda can have a referendum in late summer or, at the latest, before our young people go back to schools abroad after Christmas.