Britain has finally approved Bermuda's plans to have a memorandum of cultural understanding with Cuba, but it is now up to Government to decide whether to proceed, Government House confirmed yesterday.

The Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) in London, which had earlier supported the move, said it was taking a second look in light of recent European Union sanctions imposed on Fidel Castro's Communist regime because of human rights abuses.

Deputy Governor Tim Gurney told The Royal Gazette the FCO had given Bermuda approval to sign, but the ball was now in the Island's court.

“To the best of my knowledge, it is not signed yet, but the FCO has given Bermuda formal approval to sign,” he said.

“They did take a second look at it, but they have indicated there is no objection in principle to signing it.

“When and if they (Bermuda government) go about signing it, I do not know.”

Mr. Gurney said he understood it would be a department to department memorandum between the Bermuda and Cuba governments.

Premier Jennifer Smith did not respond to a question from The Royal Gazette yesterday asking if Government is proceeding with the memorandum of understanding.

The United Bermuda Party has slammed the ruling Progressive Labour Party for pursuing closer links with Cuba, saying it could jeopardise the Island's links with its closest trading partner the United States.

Transport Minister Dr. Ewart Brown has confirmed the Island is considering giving old buses and cars to Cuba and possibly selling old ferries.

He also said Bermuda was looking at allowing Cuban airlines to use Bermuda as a hub for flights to and from Europe.