was in favour of professionals being taxed.

Sen. Scott made his remarks during the Senate debate of The Miscellaneous Taxes (Profession Registration Tax Repeal) Act 1996.

Citing the fact that professionals usually earn more money than the average Bermudian, he said: "I think it is appropriate that professionals are taxed.'' Sen. Scott said he took offence to the outrage expressed by professionals about the proposed tax.

And he said professionals were being "mean spirited'' when they protested to the Government about the prospect of being taxed.

"There are those who wish they had the clout to say no and have the Government listen,'' Sen. Scott said.

He said professionals should have negotiated with the Minister to have the tax decreased instead of threatening to withdraw from their respective professional organisations.

"Those who can afford more should pay more,'' the Senator added. "Nobody likes the (tax).'' And as a lawyer he would have "drawn my belt in'' and paid the fees, he said.