Tourism Authority.

Governor Thorold Masefield, delivering his first Throne Speech, said the new body would be a link-up between the public and private sectors.

He added: "No economic question is more important than how Bermuda will renew and revive its tourism and visitor industry.

"The Government and the private sector need to further strengthen their partnership. Labour and management need to work together with a new agenda and purpose.'' Mr. Masefield said the new authority would mean that the private and public sectors would share financing, marketing, staffing, positioning and decision-making for all aspects of the industry.

Last night Tourism Minister David Dodwell said: "It's a new, exciting direction and will involve bodies throughout the community.

"I'm very excited about it -- it's something I feel strongly will work because of the partnership element.'' Mr. Dodwell added it was too early to discuss staffing implications for the existing Ministry staff and the staffing of the new body.

He said: "At the moment we are focussing on the process -- one I believe will be in the best long-term interests of the Country.'' Mr. Masefield told a packed Senate Chamber that the new body would not mean Government handing over its public policy role and responsibility.

He said: "It would involve Government including and enlisting the active cooperation and participation of the private sector in a more effective and essential way.'' The other pillar of the Bermudian economy, international business, is also set for a revamp.

And Mr. Masefield said it was essential that Government works with private sector organisations like the Bermuda International Business Association to keep up with the breakneck speed of change in the financial sector.

Amendments to business law will be made to allow the introduction of new products and new business structures to be established, enhancing the Island's reputation as a top-notch offshore jurisdiction.

Crackdown on drugs, crime But Mr. Masefield said crime and drugs put at risk those who live on the Island and visitors.

He added that better training and new technology would be provided to beef up the Police battle against crime. Also on the cards is legislation to allow the taping of Police interviews.

The Proceeds of Crime Bill will allow seizure of criminals' assets, especially drugs criminals, while associated regulations to wipe out money laundering will also be brought forward.

As predicted, Government will bring forward legislation for an independent Police Complaints Authority.

And a special court -- with an emphasis in treatment and permanent recovery as well as restitution -- will be set up for offenders whose crimes are linked to alcohol and drug abuse.

The Prison Service will also get an update with better training for staff and more programmes for inmates in a bid to cut down on reoffending.

A clampdown on drinks driving and recklessness on the roads will also be launched. Legislation for roadside testing for alcohol and drugs will be introduced and speed cameras will be set up.

Tougher penalties for driving unlicenced vehicles will also be brought forward.

And a new Transportation Authority will be set up to oversee the development of a long-term, integrated and comprehensive transport plan.

Long-term residents are also set for a better deal, with a White Paper born out of consultation over the summer and debate in this session of the House expected.

Racial and gender discrimination will be further squeezed out of the workplace under a new assault. The business world will be targeted to ensure full compliance with rules to end racial discrimination and women's rights will get a boost with laws insisting on equal pay for equal work.

Children and the elderly will also benefit from new legislation to improve access to housing, pensions, health care and health insurance.

And the Task Force on Child Abuse report will mean a number of changes in the law to further protect the rights of minors.

On the trades union front, legislation to allow for mandatory workplace ballots on union certification and de-certification will also be brought to the House.