ring for the Devonshire North by-election -- as a potential candidate for the rival PLP.

Land developer Rodney Smith -- once on the candidates' list for a UBP seat -- said: "I left the UBP and joined the PLP in 1993.

"I was quite vocal on several social issues in the UBP -- but I guess some folks felt I ought to tone down what I was saying, so I left.'' The rock-solid Devonshire North seat -- vacated by the death of PLP leader Frederick Wade -- has already attracted wide interest.

PLP public relations officer Paula Cox is widely regarded as the front-runner.

But former PLP MP for Hamilton West, lawyer Julian Hall, has also signalled an interest in the seat.

And Sen. Terry Lister -- who put up a good showing in last week's election for PLP deputy leader, losing to Home Affairs spokesman Alex Scott -- has also said he is interested in running.

Others thought to be in the frame are Senate Opposition leader Milton Scott and Sen. Neletha Butterfield and Rolfe Commissiong.

The latest news came as funeral director and PLP organiser David Augustus Jnr.

said he had decided against offering himself as a prospective candidate.

Mr. Augustus said family and business commitments played "a major part'' in his decision.

But he added: "I think the best thing I can do for the PLP at the present time is to help win the next election as party organiser.'' Mr. Smith admitted he faced a tough battle against a strong field of candidates.

But the 36-year-old, who has a Masters degree in Sociology and has completed work for a Doctorate, said: "I believe more young faces should come forward who are interested in representing the community.''