the arrival of the new Governor, Lord Waddington, later this month. There is a suggestion that Bermuda should have a Bermudian Governor, "to gain experience in the ceremonial affairs of the Country'', when, in fact, Britain's policy is very clear -- no Bermudian Governor without Independence, but a Bermudian Governor General if and when there is Independence. Britain's stand is that it is unwilling to take responsibility for Bermuda and not have a "man on the spot''.

This suggestion of a demonstration and a protest in favour of Independence appears to be a bit like a view of yesteryear. As nearly as we can tell, Independence is very much a dead issue, especially for the general public.

We live in an uncertain and rapidly changing world and it does seem today that Bermuda has been among the fortunate few of small islands that was blessed by escaping Independence. The good sense of Bermudians prevailed against the dreams of glory of some politicians and Bermuda decided sensibly to stay put.

A few years ago some politicians, of all stripes, were encouraging Bermuda to move to Independence, but a very cautious and sensible Bermudian public did not like the uncertainty of Independence and could find little merit in the high costs involved in the price of little more than a new flag and caused the politicians to back off.

These days it is very clear that there are great dangers for tiny fish, no matter how golden the fish, floating about in large ponds and that tiny Bermuda is a good deal more independent and more free for having a big protector. We think that generally Bermudians understand that and are only interested in Independence as a subject for discussion rather than a reality.

In an age of European unity and free trade stretching from Mexico to Alaska and at a time when the West Indian islands are beginning to understand, again, that there is advantage in some kind of federation, it would be little short of silly for Bermuda to endanger itself by bobbing about alone. Quite the contrary. It is very handy for Bermuda to have a big friend, not to interfere internally, but to do some protecting and lend a helping hand.

Politicians and would-be-politicians may continue to raise Independence as a prospect for Bermuda because it suits their agenda but it is very significant that Independence does not suit the general public's agenda. That, of course, is why no party makes Independence a major plank in its platform.

There are a number of suggested "big friend'' options but we favour sticking with Britain and attempting to arrive at a favourable situation which we think can be achieved after the departure of Hong Kong.