future and the Island will move forward and deal with its most pressing problems, according to the founder of a business club.

Mr. Owen H. Darrell was speaking to the Hamilton Probus Club, an organisation representing retired or semi-retired professional businessmen and woman, yesterday.

He told the audience that assuming an "overwhelming'' no vote on August 15, the Island's political future was assured because reason and not emotion would have prevailed.

"The well informed, thoughtful electorate of Bermuda will have denied to politicians what they seek universally, more power.

"Thus Bermuda will continue, constitutionally and economically, to enjoy the best of both worlds -full internal self-government and full consultations on foreign affairs, defence and internal security.'' Mr. Darrell, who found the Probus Club, believes political realignments post referendum will enable Bermuda to tackle its most pressing problems.

Issues such as greater racial harmony and economic opportunities for all could be put on the front burner and "wise plans'' for the utilisation of the returned Base lands formulated.

Reductions in crime rates, alcohol and drug abuse rates as well as traffic accident rates could also be put at the top of the agenda post August 15.

NOT GUILTY PLEA IN PERMIT CASE CTS Not guilty plea in permit case A Hamilton landscaping business yesterday denied employing a Portuguese national without a proper work permit.

David Chambray of Ace Cleaning and Landscaping pleaded not guilty in Magistrates' Court to employing Antonia Lourenco of Smith's Parish without permission from the Ministry of Labour and Home Affairs.

Magistrate the Wor. Edward King ordered Chambray to return to court for trial on January 18.