A controversial ban on radio talk shows discussing politics in the run-up to the General Election has been lifted -- after a lawyer took the case to a civil court.

Last week the Telecommunications Commission ordered broadcasters that politics was not allowed on the agenda during the election campaign. The pronouncement was not questioned by radio stations ZBM and VSB, who immediately toed the line and gagged talk show hosts from discussing politics.

But lawyer Tim Marshall, who runs his own law firm on Church Street, Hamilton, was so incensed by the ban he launched his own one man battle to get it overturned.

And yesterday a civil court found in favour of the champion of free speech and overturned the ban.

Puisne Judge Norma Wade Miller ordered that: "The Broadcasting Commissioners are hereby restrained from restricting members of the public, including the applicant, from listening to, imparting information and or expressing their opinions on political issues over Bermuda's radio and television stations, including the broadcasting stations of DeFontes Broadcasting Co. Ltd and the Bermuda Broadcasting Co. Ltd, provided the forum for such discussion has not been paid for, sponsored by, or established by or on behalf of any political candidate or political party.'' The Broadcasting Commissioners have also been banned the broadcasting of political opinions of members of the public.

Last night Mr. Marshall said: "It's important for all people to vote and be well informed on the political issues and, through the Royal Gazette, Bermuda Sun, radio and TV, they can express how they feel about election issues. At the end of the day people can make an informed opinion.'' Radio stations are quick to take advantage of the ban being lifted. A VSB spokesman said: "We are delighted with the ruling and will be putting it into effect immediately with the Shirley Dill show on Sunday morning.

"We applaud the fact that Tim Marshall, seemingly alone, would have had the concern for the freedom of the press on this island.'' Tim Marshall