Bermuda's Chamber of Commerce is set to go hi-tech in a bid to offer more value for money for its members.

And a two-pronged attack to boost the twin pillars of Bermuda's economy -- tourism and international business -- is in the making.

The news came as it was announced banker Michael Smith is to replace David Rowntree as president of the Chamber, which boasts 750 local businesses and individuals among its members.

And The Royal Gazette understands that a computer-based business centre offering world wide web research facilities could be on the cards.

It is also believed the Chamber is to put a fresh emphasis on influencing legislation which could affect members and Government's financial policy.

Mr. Smith declined to comment on specific plans for his two-year term with the Chamber.

But he said: "The focus I am going to bring is membership value -- the Chamber has a number of programmes of work which are about to hit the headlines.'' The Bank of Butterfield personnel and branch banking vice-president said changing circumstances meant the Chamber would have to be flexible.

He said: "David and I have worked very well together over the past two years.

Needs have been evolving and my presidency will be different from David's because of that evolution.'' Mr. Smith said that the Chamber would be working hard to shore up the struggling tourist numbers, as well as international business.

He added: "We need to focus on our core business sectors which are in difficulty now.'' Mr. Smith said the Chamber would be working "very closely'' with the US-based Monitor Group, hired to give the tourist industry a shot in the arm.

He added that the education system -- vital to a healthy economy -- would also come under fresh scrutiny.

And Mr. Smith said a UK threat to Bermuda's international business sector due to an insistence on tough new anti-white collar crime laws -- which some fear could lead to "fishing expeditions'' by foreign governments -- was also high on the agenda.

He added: "This is a major focus for us -- it has the potential to affect Bermuda very seriously.

"And one of the issues we have to deal with is that fact that a sector of the economy which is a guest in our Country is going to come under attack. It will be a very difficult issue to deal with.'' Mr. Smith -- currently first vice-president of the Chamber -- said: "I'm thrilled at the challenge. The demands of the presidency are pretty extreme and I do have a day job already. I'm looking forward to it -- but with some trepidation.'' Mr. Smith has served on the board of the Chamber since 1993, becoming first vice-president when Mr. Rowntree was appointed.