marginal seat of St. George's South.

Ms Gordon is understood to be considering teaming up with ex-Government Whip Rick Spurling in a tactical move designed to keep the ruling UBP in the Government driving seat.

The Premier -- who currently shares Southampton West with Tourism Minister David Dodwell -- is understood to be considering staking her political future on a run in a marginal seat.

And St. George's South, rocked by the suprise defection of UBP MP Grace Bell to the Opposition towards the end of the last sitting of the House of Assembly, is regarded as a key battleground in the fight for victory at the polls.

It is thought inside the UBP that the Premier's high personal popularity could keep St. George's South in Government hands -- and generate a spin-off in neighbouring St. George's North, propelling golf pro Kim Swan into the late Leon (Jimmy) Williams' place over PLP candidate Deleay Robinson.

The Royal Gazette revealed on Monday that Southampton West voters had been polled by telephone to canvass views on whether Ms Gordon moving elsewhere could backfire.

And the pollsters also asked for opinions on insurance executive and golf champ Madeleine Joell -- tipped to take over from retiring MP Harry Soares in Paget West -- as a replacement.

UBP insiders said yesterday: "This idea has been mooted before -- it is thought that she could, given her popularity, run in any marginal to secure its success.'' One added: "I think they're looking at all their options and I think, closer to a General Election, if people are not polling well in critical seats, I think that's an option.'' Mr. Spurling's current running mate is Barritt's salesman Derrick Carlington -- but he would be likely to step aside without a fight if asked.

Mr. Spurling said yesterday: "All I can say is that I'm not aware of any formal initiatives for the Premier to run in St. George's South at this time.'' Ms Gordon was also playing her cards close to her chest last night -- but did not rule out a shift of seat, thought to be the first time a Premier has taken such a gamble.

She said: "My status has not changed -- I'm presently canvassing and working very hard in Southampton West.

"But as the leader of the UBP I will continue to keep my options open and review as neccessary the entire strategic plan for our group.

"At the moment I will continue to work hard for the people of Southampton West.'' Other crucial seats in the upcoming General Election will be Warwick East and West, Hamilton East and West and St. George's South.

Ms Gordon will tonight heat up the General Election temperature with a major TV address.

The 13-minute broadcast, to air on all three Island channels, will focus on the ruling United Bermuda Party's soon-to-be released Keys to Partnership -- the Plan for Bermuda's Future.

Ms Gordon said: "It's our visison and plan for the future,'' Party executive officer Oliver Bain added: "It marks the continuation of our commitment to the people of Bermuda to share with them not only where we want to go, but how we are going to get there.'' The party political pitch will be followed up by the delivery of the new policy document to every Bermudian home.