to the Commission for Competitiveness.

But its report, which was prepared over two years to improve the Bermuda economy, is confusing elsewhere on the subject.

The Commission's task force on entertainment, headed by Mr. John White, claims it is time for casino gambling to be investigated.

But elsewhere the report claims Bermuda may not be the right place for gambling, and that gambling would not be the single answer to the Island's economic woes.

The task force calls for the development and training of local talent to provide entertainment in venues around the Island. It also suggests more free entertainment in places like the Civil Air Terminal, the cruise ship arrivals areas, on the streets of the major towns and on public beaches.

But it stresses: "It is time to seriously look at the introduction of European-style casino gambling in Bermuda. This is the most important injection of new life and revenue source we (the task force) can suggest.

"The concept will give our old, boring image a much-needed new look and help to drive up visitor satisfaction levels.'' In many places in Europe and the Caribbean casinos are popular haunts among visitors.

The full report recognises this but claims that gambling would not be a quick or easy solution to the economy, which is recovering from recession.

It states: "Gaming and casino gambling is growing dramatically in the United States and resort destinations around the world.

"Although it might add another `product' to Bermuda, it would not be an attraction that draws hordes of new visitors to Bermuda. Gambling is no longer a novelty in the United States.

"The profile of the typical gamer in the US is a lower economic and educational level than the typical Bermudian visitor.

The Commission has also promised to look at other forms of gambling, including lotteries. But it says an international lottery may not be possible because of the high capital required.