gay rights an issue in Base talks.

The campaigners have asked the President and a key Congressman to put pressure on the Island to drop its laws against gay sex.

Pembroke resident Mr. Jim Uhlman, an American, has asked Mr. Clinton to break off negotiations until the laws are scrapped.

The move follows visits to Washington by the Premier and Opposition politicians in efforts to delay closure of the Base.

Mr. Uhlman wrote to the President: "I would appreciate, if at all possible, your assistance in breaking off negotiations with the Bermuda Government, with regard to the US Naval Base and civil air terminal, until such time as they meet their obligations under the European Human Rights Convention and repeal the relevant sections of the Bermuda criminal code.

"As a US citizen I do not believe that US tax dollars should be spent to subsidise any country that refuses to abide by international law. I feel that the Bermuda Government is not bargaining in good faith.'' The Congressman directly lobbied by Bermuda over the Base has also been asked to use his contacts to speak up for gays.

Mr. Ron Dellums, who chairs the House armed services committee, has been approached by New Jersey gay rights campaigner Mr. Bill Courson.

Mr. Courson asked the lawmaker to raise the gay rights issue with the Premier.

"I hope you will inquire of Premier Swan how he and his Government plan to dispose of this matter,'' Mr. Courson wrote to Mr. Dellums yesterday.

"Knowing of your personal interest and activity in the promotion of human rights standards internationally, I know that I can rely on your conveying your concern to Premier Swan.''