A veteran member of the Progressive Labour Party and former MP believes it is the wrong time to be accepting honorary titles from the UK while discussing Independence.

Walter Roberts said that while British traditions have always been a part of life in Bermuda, PLP politicians should be giving an example to the people who elect them.

"I don't think as PLP politicians we should accept any awards from the Queen at this particular time. I think we stand for Independence and we have to show an example to the people we represent," said Mr. Roberts, who began his political career in the 1960s.

Mr. Roberts was reacting to last week's news that former Premier Jennifer Smith was named a Dame in the Queen's Birthday Honours. Mr. Roberts said a party which hopes to see its country independent should distance itself from such the tradition.

Mr. Roberts said he was awarded an Order of the British Empire (OBE) after he resigned in 1998, but refused to accept it.

"I feel strongly that we should not ... I still do," said Mr. Roberts, a long time supporter of Independence.

Pembroke Central MP Wayne Perinchief, also an outspoken advocate of Independence, said accepting the titles serves only to confuse the country about the political philosophy of a party that accepts titles bestowed by Britain yet aims to sever ties with the country.

However, he pointed out that an individual who is a member of the PLP who accepts the title may not be a supporter of Independence.

"It was once a PLP policy not to accept titles, at the time there was surprise when Dame Lois accepted, but it seems as if it now is common policy to accept awards. Personally, I support the stance that we should not accept these titles," said Mr. Perinchief.

Former Attorney General Dame Lois Brown Evans accepted her title in 2000. After a life in politics, she said she was encouraged to do so by her children. In earlier years she was offered a CBE, but refused because of the party policy which strongly opposed members accepting the official titles.

Dame Lois said the issue isn't raised when UBP politicians accept titles, pointing out that former Premier Pamela Gordon is also a Dame. "It does not mean you accept colonialism, I support Independence and I hope to one day see the country go independent. For the PLP it always comes down to a damned if you do, damned if you don't attitude."

Dame Lois said she admired those who refused the titles, but accepted hers as a personal reward for her work in the community. "It's our national honours, this is a reward for the work you have done, it's a reward for the time you have spent on your feet," she added.

When asked if he would accept an official title if awarded one, Premier Alex Scott refused to comment.