A Law Reform Commission will be established "to ensure the constant review of legislation and to make the law responsive to the needs of society" according to the Throne Speech.

How this will differ from the current Law Reform Committee, comprised of a panel of lawyers and jurists, was not made clear during the speech.

However, Shawn Crockwell of the United Bermuda Party said: "I think a commission has more authority to make recommendations to Government and develop green and white papers. We are moving now towards having very strong recommendations that will probably result in legislation. Reform, I think, is overdue."

His party colleague John Barritt agreed, highlighting a number of key areas where Bermuda could do with modernising its laws.

A change in the double jeopardy rule under British law, which came into effect in 2005, allows suspects involved in serious crimes, including murder and rape, to face a second trial if there is fresh and compelling new evidence.

Mr. Barritt has long called for such a change to be considered by Bermuda but has had attempts to get the law changed rebutted in the past.

He also highlighted freedom of information, and the Election Act as key issues he hopes the new commission will look at, adding: "The Criminal Code dates back to the early 20th century. I'm sure there are things in there that need to be updated."