Minister Mr. Dennis Lister claimed yesterday.

The Opposition MP said he was disappointed that considering the "glorious'' achievements of Bermuda's national soccer squad, Government has been dragging its feet in financial support.

"Premier the Hon. Sir John Swan should support young people if he wants their support in the next election,'' Mr. Lister stated.

The MP was referring to Sir John's letter this week to first-time voters between the ages of 17 and 24 saying Government has had a "longstanding commitment'' to young people and urging them to vote UBP. He said the letter brought to a head the PLP's concerns for young people.

"Our Parliamentarians began to receive expressions of dismay from parents and young people who received it,'' he said.

"The Progressive Labour Party has become increasingly concerned about Government's failure to provide continual support and guidance for our young people.

"It is unfortunate that Sir John chose to canvass our young people for support to the UBP at the same time that the UBP has failed to provide leadership and support for our young men in the World Cup Soccer tournament.'' He said the Bermuda Football Association had more than 2,500 members. And over the years its soccer programmes had been primarily supported by local sporting clubs.

"Ironically, when Bermuda's soccer has reached a zenith as a consequence of the hard work of the BFA and local clubs, Sir John and the UBP Government, instead of supporting this excellent effort by our youth, are calling on our youth to support them,'' he said.

Mr. Lister called on Government to match donations made by the public in last night's soccer telethon, or make up any shortfall the BFA encounters in its budgeting for the World Cup.

Mr. Dennis Lister.