New rights for foreign-born children of Bermudian women are likely to be passed in the House of Assembly today.

These youngsters will be able to gain Bermudian status under the proposed legislation.

Currently, only foreign-born children of Bermudian men have that right.

The Bermudian Status by Birth or Grant Register Amendment Act 1993 will give the sexes equal rights.

Today the bill comes up for its second reading -- and is likely to spark much debate.

Government anticipates, however, little controversy over the long-awaited change.

Ministers have accepted arguments it was unfair to be "gender selective'' over status rights.

Other immigration measures will also come under the microscope today.

MPs will debate the second reading of the Bermuda Immigration and Protection Amendment Act 1993.

This will be the final piece of legislation in what is expected to be a long session.

Government whip Dr. David Dyer said MPs are likely to continue debating into the early hours tomorrow.

"It's going to be a very busy day,'' he added.

First on the Orders of the Day is consideration of The Court Fees and Expenses Amendment Rules 1993.

This will be followed by consideration of The Government Fees (Trade Marks and Service Marks) Regulations 1993.

Dr. Dyer expected neither of these first two items would take up much debate.

The second reading of the Clean Air Amendment Act 1993 is third on the list.

And it will be followed by consideration of The Clean Air Regulations 1993.

The legislation sets out permissible levels of "contaminants in the ambient air''.