illegal acts was inappropriate, an Opposition MP claimed last night.

Shadow Home Affairs Minister Alex Scott balked at Premier David Saul's comments concerning crime ridden areas during the motion to adjourn in the House of Assembly on Friday night.

Dr. Saul asked MP's: "Would there be any objection if what was going on in these areas was filmed and then played on public television? "Are members of this House prepared to see people portrayed on television, not for evidence, but to shame them. "Whether people go along with that or whether they scream about people's rights, we do not have to put them in jail, we would shame them.'' Mr. Scott told The Royal Gazette that he had spoken with his Opposition colleagues and "my initial thought is that the Premier has not given too much thought to what he is suggesting''.

"While we all want to arrive at initiatives which will thwart crime in general, his suggestion could have consequences by putting Bermudian lay persons in harm way.

"I certainly do not want to throw cold water on any initiatives against crime but I am concerned with the inappropriateness of the Premier suggesting this measure.'' Mr. Scott said he had appeared on News and Views on Monday night as a panelist and a "very alarming'' clip showing a drug abuser had been aired.

The man had stated that when he needed drugs or funds to buy them he thought nothing about taking up a machete and giving people "a few whacks'' if it was necessary.

"My point is that we want to stop that kind of activity,'' said Mr. Scott.

"We don't want to suggest to the lay person to go out and film this young man. If he is going after drugs he may see them as a threat and he could use the machete.

"This is a matter best left to the Police. I have no difficulty with the Police using cameras in their work if they feel it would aid and abet them in the execution of their duty.

"But suggesting this to the lay person raises serious concerns about safety for the average Bermudian.'' Mr. Scott said there were also other ramifications to consider.

If an innocent person was caught on film near where an illegal act was being taped, the broadcasting entity could be open for libel when they aired the programme because viewers could assume the person was involved in the illegal act, said Mr. Scott.