Ewart Brown today resigned from the Cabinet to fight for the leadership of the Progressive Labour Party and the country.

Dr. Brown, who stepped down as Tourism and Transport Minister, told a press conference his leadership would take Bermuda to the next level.

Listing his achievements he said he had increased tourist numbers and spending, improved efficiency at TCD, reduced airfare while bringing new routes and brought in five fast ferries and computerised taxi dispatch.

He said: "Why am I here? I want to bring the same - if not more - vision, strength, energy and resolve to get things done that I brought to the Tourism and Transport ministries - to the leadership of the Progressive Labour Party, and ultimately, to the leadership of Bermuda."

Explaining why he had changed his mind after promising not to run this year he said: "I believe the PLP has lived with the prospect of my leadership long enough, and, that after a decision is made in the impending weeks, it would be best for all concerned if the party did not have to face that same decision again."

Steering clear of specific issues he said he would reveal his platform in the coming days, ahead of the vote on October 27.

The PLP Deputy Leader said if defeated he would return to the backbenches and retire at the next election.

No immediate comment from Premier Scott was forthcoming.

See a seven minute viedo clip of Dr. Brown's statement taped at the Sessions House today

See tomorrow's Royal Gazette for a full report on Dr. Brown's resignation and the subsequent Cabinet shuffle.