Duly noted, was the response from both the Progressive Labour Party and the United Bermuda Party to January polls estimating support for party leaders and for the parties themselves. Yet, both added, the proof will be in the pudding: for Government as the Social Agenda begins to bear fruit, and for the UBP as the ?Government-in-waiting? at the next General Election.

?We obviously have taken note of poll, however, it must be said that while noting polls we are not led by them,? Premier Alex Scott said yesterday when asked for his response to the continuing plunge in his job approval ratings.

?We continue, and over the next few months we will make the concerted effort required to deliver on the promise of the Social Agenda which addresses the primary needs of many Bermudians.

?In concert with this, there are currently ideas being presented to many stakeholders of the community with respect to developing a comprehensive approach to sustainable development.

?The priorities of our community include an educational system that produces leaders of tomorrow, and an interest in our seniors that is heartfelt and responsive to all of their needs.

?The public look for an ease in the housing challenges and expect a future that is inclusive and secure.

?The Government?s focus has been and continues to be in these areas and the Social Agenda is the plan for the way forward.?

The Social Agenda was outlined in November?s Throne Speech. The next Throne Speech will contain legislation to expedite that process, the Premier said. ?The legislative programme for the next Throne Speech will be structured in a way that has never before been attempted by any previous Government.

?Through this structure, we will be able to implement the policies and programmes articulated in the Throne Speech immediately so that relevant legislation can take place as opposed to waiting for what is sometimes an enduring drafting process.?

Maintaining that at present the focus is placed squarely on social initiatives, Mr. Scott said Government must also look towards the future ? and the possibility of sovereignty.

?It has been suggested that this Government is the first Government to have in place a short-term and long-term plan and programme for the country, and as a consequence it is my belief that as the initiatives outlined in this plan become a reality, the understanding and appreciation of the public will become more evident.?

PLP spokesman Scott Simmons echoed some of the Premier?s comments.

While he did not mention Independence, Mr. Simmons repeated the Premier?s assertions that Government focus remained unwaveringly on social initiatives ? and that once those initiatives begin to take effect, they will resonate with the community.

During the first and second quarters of 2005, he added, ?we believe those numbers will rise?.

?As we move forward with a social contract with the country, we believe the country will come along with us as they see our commitment.?

He said the PLP has already spent demonstrating their commitment was the beginning of the uphill struggle, he said.

?We never thought the job would be easy. I don?t think he (Premier Alex Scott) came into office expecting quick results,? he said, reiterating the importance of a long-term plan for the country.

The PLP recognises what social challenges the country is facing and remains dedicated to addressing those challenges, he said. ?The party does pay attention to these numbers. But we will take this poll on its merit, and move forward from there. We remain focused.?

Despite the wavering support for Dr. Gibbons, UBP spokesman Jamahl Simmons said the Opposition leader was doing his job.

?If poll numbers determined the leadership of a party somebody needs to explain why the Premier is still hanging onto his job!? he said via e-mail yesterday.

?Serving as the leader of a diverse party where differences of opinion are respected is a tough job and Grant Gibbons has consistently stepped up to the plate and met those challenges.

?The United Bermuda Party continues to evolve and change, producing new ideas such as the Economic Empowerment Bill and new people such as Mrs.Gina Spence-Farmer. We recognise that there is often resistance to change ? but as a team the United Bermuda Party is equipped for the job.

?The PLP has eroded much of the goodwill that swept them into office in 1998, Mr. Simmons continued.

?Once people lose faith in a government and lose hope that their lives and their future are going to get any better, then it affects every politician, regardless of political affiliation.?