system of checking the airworthiness of aircraft.

The Island is responsible for checking private planes registered here, even though they may be used elsewhere.

British officials have been concerned about the local system, saying they wanted to take over the job of running airworthiness checks.

They raised the subject with the Minister, the Hon. Maxwell Burgess, during his recent trip to the UK.

But Mr. Burgess said yesterday he hoped the matter would be resolved. "I think there was concern about our ability to police the air-worthiness of a number of aircraft on our register,'' he said. "We had chats about it, and we're in the process of having a look-see at it.

"We've come up with an action plan which I think ought to allay concern in the future.'' Indications were that Bermuda would stay in control, he said.

"It's encouraging. There is a basis for common resolve.''