act in plotting the future of his force, it was claimed yesterday.

And Delegated and Legislative Affairs Minister the Hon. Sir John Sharpe also revealed a suspended Police constable training course -- which had been postponed indefinitely for financial reasons -- will now begin in January.

Sir John said Mr. Edwards faced a dilemma over bringing in new Bermudian blood.

"On the one hand, he is anxious to take on Bermudians who meet the qualifying standards. On the other hand, he is reluctant to let the contracts of experienced non-Bermudians run out, because he does not want to run the risk of impaired efficiency.

"He has to keep a balance between these two desires in order to ensure Bermuda has an efficient Police force, and one whose morale is high.'' Sir John, fending off criticism from Shadow Minister Mr. Stanley Morton, made the statement to "clarify'' current Police recruiting.

He said the constable training course -- which The Royal Gazette revealed had been suspended -- would begin in January.