The Progressive Labour Party is set to draw up back-up plans if Leon (Jimmy) Williams pulls out as party leader Jennifer Smith's running mate due to ill-health.

But it is understood the move has caused a split in the St. George's North constituency, with two rival candidates staking a claim.

PLP Leader Ms Smith is thought to favour insurance company executive Ross Smith.

But colourful local figure Kenneth Bascome thinks the nomination ought to be his.

According to party insiders, Mr. Smith and Mr. Bascome, both members of the Corporation of St. George's, would each consider running -- if Mr. Williams chose to pull out.

But Mr. Smith -- if he was to win the backing of Ms Smith -- would be a racing certainty as her running mate in what will be a keenly-fought constituency.

No-one from the party could be contacted for comment last night, but it is understood Mr. Williams is still in the King Edward VII Memorial Hospital.

United Bermuda Party turncoat Grace Bell was left with no room at the inn after the PLP picked Rev. Wilbur Lowe and Arthur Pitcher to fight the St.

George's South seat.

Mrs. Bell won the seat with Rick Spurling for the UBP at the last General Election and may also attempt to stake a claim in St. George's North for her new party.

A new St. George's North team would face up against already-chosen Kim Swan, a golf professional hoping to overcome the handicap of a dual-seat constituency currently in the hands of the PLP and snatch a seat.

UBP insiders say the choice of a running mate for Mr. Swan has been narrowed down to a handful of possibles -- with ex-Mayor of St. George's Henry Hayward being touted as as a potential politician.

And current Mayor Lois Perinchief could also be viewed as a possible target and heavyweight candidate for Government.

Meanwhile, the PLP are set to announce this week that they will put Bermuda Cricket Board of Control chief El James into bat in the crucial Warwick West constituency alongside sitting MP Ewart Brown.

Cromwell Shakir, a popular figure with the local branch, pushed out George Scott, who came a creditable third at the last General Election -- but later announced he would not stand.

The seat, currently split between Dr. Brown and House Leader and Government Whip Quinton Edness, is also a key tussle in the race to form the next Government.

The Royal Gazette understands Mr. Edness, who retired from Cabinet in a recent reshuffle, has yet to decide if he will stand again.

But UBP insiders believe Mr. Edness is favouring fighting another campaign, alongside Government Senator and Community Affairs Minister Yvette Swan.

Mr. Edness -- still canvassing his area -- said last night: "I have a great affection for the people of this Country. I've worked for them for a long time and I feel I could continue working for them.'' He added: "Having just come out of Cabinet, I'm taking a serious look at my life and my family's life and take time to look at that and make a decision.'' In Warwick East, ex-Minister Irving Pearman has already said he will stand down at the next General Election.

His place in the tussle against veteran Shadow Minister Alex Scott and first-time candidate, teacher Dale Butler, will be taken by Government Senate leader E.T. (Bob) Richards and another new face.

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