Election is called.

Last night Health Minister Clarence Terceira revealed exclusively to The Royal Gazette that he has written to Premier Pamela Gordon informing her of his intention to stand down as the MP for Pembroke West in the near future.

When first contacted by The Royal Gazette last night a tight lipped Dr.

Terceira refused to comment on the resignation rumour.

But he later admitted that he thought it was time to stand down to make way for "a fresh face''.

And he stressed that his decision was made for personal reasons rather than because of any political rift in the Government.

"This was a decision I made back in 1984,'' Dr. Terceira said.

"I thought then that, when I reached 70, it would be time for me to retire.

The graveyards are full of indispensable people who don't know when to go. I don't have that philosophy.

Dr. Terceira, who celebrated his 70th birthday last month, is the fourth member of the Government to step down this year.

In March former Premier Sir John Swan retired after 25 years as a UBP stalwart. His decision was quickly followed by the resignation of then Premier David Saul. And in September Youth and Sports Minister David Dyer also quit after 12 years in the house because of personal reasons. Dr. Dyer represented Pembroke West along with Dr. Terceira and the ward will now have to have a second by-election in a matter of months.

Last night Dr. Terceira denied that his resignation would harm the Government in the run-up to a General Election.

"I am very optimistic that the UBP will pull together and go on to win the next election,'' he said.

"I don't think this will cause a problem for the Government, it will give them a chance to get somebody fresh faced in.

"I don't have any problem with anyone in Government and I have a very strong relationship with the Premier. We are very close.

"But I have seen too many politicians stay on too long. I have worked hard in politics and feel that I have made my contribution -- although that is a matter for others to judge -- but I have my health and it's a great time to go now, while I have a lot of other things to do.

"There is no anger or controversy and I go without rancour.'' Deputy Premier Jerome Dill paid tribute to the Health Minister, thanking him for his contribution to Government. He also described the resignation as "a selfless act''.