The Opposition's pre-election machine moved into a higher gear on Tuesday night with the launch of their party conference.

The Annual Delegates Conference was a good time to examine where the PLP was heading, said party chairman Mr. Victor Fishington.

He added the party was in a healthy state and assured about the outcome of the next general election.

"We are at the ready. There is a mood of confidence and optimism in the party''.

Mr. Fishington said the conference -- with a theme of "commitment, conviction, courage'' -- would be getting feedback from party delegates who represented various branches.

"We will be discussing with delegates our plans, how we are doing things, and how we can enhance the things we do. Basically, we are trying to keep everything in focus.'' He added: "This is not a year for the election of party officers. That election is carried out every two years.'' Among the key issues to be discussed over the next few days are drugs and crime.

"We will be looking at the whole concept of preventing crime, and how to put policies in place,'' said Mr. Fishington.

Mr. Fishington said much of the conference would be taken up with "in-house'' discussion.

In a departure from previous years, the first night of the conference was open to the public, attracting about 25 people to PLP headquarters Alaska Hall.

It featured a formal address by Progressive Labour Party Leader Mr. Frederick Wade.

PLP Public Relations Officer Ms Paula Cox said party business would be discussed until today.

On Friday night, there would be a pre-banquet cocktail reception, she added.

This would allow those attending the Saturday banquet the chance to meet Congressman Donald Payne, chairman of the Congressional Black Caucus.

Congressman Payne will be keynote speaker at the banquet at Hamilton's Princess Hotel.

Tickets are available from the PLP headquarters, the Somerset News Agency, Opposition MP Mrs. Lois Browne-Evan's chambers, and from MPs.