The United Bermuda Party's internal report on how to reverse its losing streak was unveiled to the party caucus this week but reformers are said to be disappointed.

The report does not recommend a name change although there are indications it calls for a limit on the number of terms MPs should sit.

Earlier this year some reformist MPs indicated they would leave the UBP if it didn't show signs of real change. However most MPs were saying little about any specific recommendations in the report yesterday.

A poll last month by Research.bm showed the UBP trailing the Progressive Labour Party despite the fact that only three in ten voters had a favourable impression of Premier Ewart Brown.

The PLP stand on 37 percent of the vote while 33 percent back the UBP whose leaders also had a poor showing – only 36 percent of voters had a favourable impression of leader Kim Swan and only 15 percent liked deputy leader Cole Simons.

The UBP is split between reformers who want major change and those who think the present formula will come good in time, with some minor adjustments.

The report was produced by a five-person committee, comprising MP Trevor Moniz, former MP David Dodwell, Senators Charlie Swan and Jeanne Atherden and former candidate Wayne Scott.

UBP leader Kim Swan could not be reached for comment but deputy leader Cole Simons said the report was a work in progress and would be put in the public domain when details were finalised.

New MP Donte Hunt, who is associated with the reform wing, said: "I would have liked to have seen maybe a more aggressive approach to the report but it is a step forward so I am pleased with that. I think Bermuda requires a more aggressive approach as we formulate the most viable opposition party."

Former UBP candidate Sean Pitcher said: "It is a way forward, it is a start. You were not going to get any major earth-shattering revelations overnight."

Asked if the cautious tone of the report was likely to spark a split he said: "That is really up to those people."

Amid reports the caucus saw some heated exchanges Mr. Pitcher said: "The extended caucus were there, it was a very positive meeting.

"Any time you have a bunch of politicians in a room they have strong opinions and any points or opinions are going to be made forcefully. There was no rancour or animosity.

"It was an interim plan, an action plan is being developed, we are taking little steps to start the ball rolling, the main thing is progress is being achieved."

Party whip John Barritt said he was still working through the report. "I am still digesting it and considering what it contains and what it does not."

Former leader Michael Dunkley did not have any comment. He said: "It is an internal matter we will deal with."

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