agents' conference in Cairo today -- because of pressing political matters nearer home.

The Hon. C.V. (Jim) Woolridge would normally be expected to grab the chance to promote Bermuda.

But defending his seat in the Smith's South United Bermuda Party primary election on October 1 has taken priority.

"It is very unfortunate that I won't be representing the Island,'' he told The Royal Gazette yesterday.

"I think ideally a minister should be there. There are many people who would want to talk to him. It is where all the major decisions are made.'' The prestigious annual American Society of Travel Agents convention, which lasts around a week, draws tour operators from around the world.

It regularly features a host of internationally-known keynote speakers.

With 85 percent of Bermuda's tourism business pulled in by travel agents, it is a prime chance to sell the Island.

Bermuda will be represented this week by Tourism Director Mr. Gary Phillips, and the department's North American director of sales, Mr. Paul Zar.

Mr. Woolridge has also produced a taped message to be heard at the conference.

It highlights the November-March off-season tourism programmes, and the special cut-price deals.

In particular, it stresses the new hotel weather guarantee scheme.

Under it, if the temperature falls below 68 degrees, tourists will get compensation such as discounted hotel rates, cheap shopping, or bottles of champagne.

"A lot of our repeat visitors enjoy Bermuda during this particular period,'' explained Mr. Woolridge.

"I really want to get that across. I personally believe November is the most delightful of months.'' Mr. Woolridge said he had faced a difficult decision between going or staying at home.

But he expressed confidence Mr. Phillips and Mr. Zar would "adequately'' promote Bermuda's interests.

"I really feel I ought to be back in my constituency at this time,'' he added. "It would be entirely wrong of me to take my constituents for granted.'' Mr. Woolridge said he was mounting a big campaign in Smith's South, and would be trying to meet all the people.

The primary will take place at Harrington Sound School.

Mr. Woolridge and adopted candidate Mr. Trevor Moniz, a well known lawyer, will be trying to fight off a challenge from Dr. Grant Gibbons.