Kim Swan has criticised all three candidates for Premier, saying that they are all trying to distance themselves from the failures of the Government.

While the Opposition Leader said that each candidate had put forward 'laudable ideals,' he said the proposals demonstrate the weakness of Government over the last 12 years.

"Each of these leadership candidates have collectively more than 30 cumulative years of cabinet experience under their belts.

"Essentially they, and the mindset of their party, have been a major part of the problems Bermuda is now faced with."

While he said Shadow Finance Minister Bob Richards had repeatedly called into question Government overspending, the Government had amassed a billion-dollar debt.

"Ironically, Mr. Lister led the chorus supporting Minister Cox's budgets in recent years," Mr. Swan said.

"To now be criticising his colleague in this prolonged leadership bid is opportunistic and disingenuous at best.

"There can be no doubt that the PLP's failed policies make a good target, even for internal friendly fire, but we must not fall into the false sense of security of being hoodwinked by those who also permitted wrongdoing and careless spending under their noses.

"The irony of this media bonanza is that we continue to have unprecedented murders and prolific shootings taking place whilst potential PLP leaders posture and the outgoing Premier says very little at a time when the morale of our people is at an all-time low."

PLP leadership candidate Dale Butler responded to Mr. Swan's statement saying: "As an astute Bermudian, we will take your wide ranging views into consideration as we reflect on action that is needed after all is said and done."

Paula Cox could not be reached for comment, while Terry Lister chose not to respond at this time.