tolls, officials said.

The International Internet Association has sent letters saying "computer users in Bermuda will be allowed to use the Internet free of charge,'' beginning on November 25.

The letter describes Internet as "the primary electronic highway for computer communications,'' with 15 million users.

The network allows computer users to communicate with other users, the letter signed by Mr. Jonathon Dougherty said. "In addition, they can access thousands of free information databases ranging from stock market prices to scientific data to sports trivia.'' Anyone with a modem could access Internet for free by telephoning Washington, DC, he said. "All that is required is for users to register in advance so they can be provided with access to our systems.'' When a reporter dialled the telephone number for registration, a recorded message said that the volume of queries meant that a reply would take about three weeks.

Mr. Mike Oatley, director of computer systems and services for the Bermuda Government, said users incurred costs with such networks, whether they were described as "free,'' or not.

First, there was the cost of the carrier used to reach the network node, generally a long-distance telephone charge, he said.

Secondly, there was generally some type of charge for use of the database accessed.

"We've looked at similar type things before,'' Mr. Oatley said. "The carrier to get to the actual network itself is not normally that bad,'' but making use of information found in the network often was.

Mr. John Instone, public relations officer for Cable & Wireless, said somebody would have to pay the long-distance telephone charge to access Internet.

The letter said Internet was funded by the US Government.

"Our organisation's purpose is to promote the free flow of information and ideas without regard to position or affiliation,'' Mr. Dougherty said. "With this spirit in mind we are pleased to announce that we have received funding to provide unlimited free access to the Internet for users in Bermuda.''