A Canadian newspaper has suggested its readers reconsider vacationing in Bermuda following Government's repeated adjournment of the debate into the serious crimes inquiry.

Last week, The Royal Gazette reported that the father of murdered Canadian teenager Rebecca Middleton was disappointed that the issue had still not been discussed by MPs in the House of Assembly.

The inquiry was ordered following an outcry over the botched investigation and prosecution of Becky's murder in July, 1996.

However, a general inquiry into the handling of serious crimes was held, as opposed to one just into the rape, torture and murder of 17-year-old Becky.

But despite the report being completed in September, and made public in November, it has still not been officially discussed by Government.

The commissioners made more than 60 recommendations to Police, the Director of Public Prosecutions and the Attorney General's chambers.

As yet, the public has not been updated on whether the recommendations have been implemented, or when they are likely to be.

And Mr. Middleton said he wanted to see the report discussed and all recommendations implemented as soon as possible to ensure the same mistakes were mot made in Bermuda again.

Mr. Middleton's local newspaper in Belleville, Ontario, The Intelligencer, followed up The Royal Gazette's story on the delay of the debate, and also printed an editorial.

The editorial read: "It was small consolation that Government ordered a commission of inquiry into the handling of serious crimes in the British colony, largely because of the way the Middleton case was concluded (or not concluded).

"The fact the Bermuda Government wouldn't hold a separate inquiry in to the Middleton case, but rather lumped it in with other `serious crimes' belittled the tragedy. That was the second insult to the girl's family.

"Now the report that was completed last September, and its 60 recommendations are being swept aside or at least given little priority by the ruling party of Bermuda.

"That's the third strike for the colony which promotes itself as a safe, scenic paradise getaway for tourists.'' The editorial also suggested that Canada's Department of Foreign Affairs should put pressure on the Government to deal with the report.

It continued: "Bermuda's economy depends heavily on tourism and one wonders how quickly they would change their tone if they felt those tourism dollars were threatened.

"Individuals may also want to consider whether they want to spend their money in a place that appears to put so little value on justice and human life.'' Home Affairs Minister Paula Cox was not available for comment , and calls made to Government last week about the debate were not returned.