The Progressive Labour Party have denied rumours that former Premier Dame Jennifer Smith is to resign her seat.

A report on VSB radio yesterday claimed election officers had warned one East End school that it might have to shut for a potential polling day.

But a statement released by Dame Jennifer's branch chairman in St. George's said speculation about a by-election was misguided.

Carlton Tyrell said: "Dame Jennifer has not submitted her resignation. Dame Jennifer is working diligently in her constituency."

Meanwhile Premier Ewart Brown has appointed former Education Minister Terry Lister as Leader of the House.

Mr. Lister resigned from Cabinet recently in order to spend more time with his family after serving in the PLP Cabinet continuously since 1998.

The Premier's spokesman Scott Simmons said the post of House Leader, which has not been used recently, would see Mr. Lister split organisational duties of Parliament with chief whip Ottiwell Simmons.

The House resumes today with the continuation of the Opposition's reply to the Throne Speech.