OPPOSITION Leader Grant Gibbons will sound a prelude to the forthcoming general election campaign next week when he makes a speech outlining the United Bermuda Party's vision for Bermuda's future.

Dr. Gibbons said yesterday that he would also be introducing new UBP candidates to the public when he makes the address at St. Paul's Centennial Hall, Court Street, next Wednesday lunchtime.

"We believe it's time for the UBP to go straight to the people about who we are, what we believe in and what we stand for," said Dr. Gibbons yesterday. "We hope that as many Bermudians as possible can come to hear what we have to say."

Asked why he thought the speech was necessary, Dr. Gibbons replied: "We have been doing a lot of listening - that I believe is one of the roles of an Opposition - and now it's time for us to communicate a little more actively.

"We have been hearing what the public is concerned about, issues like housing, security and education, for example. It is very important that people understand that we have strong feelings about these issues.

"I think we are all anticipating an election in the not-too-distant future. I think we are seen as an effective Opposition, but we want to keep people a true sense of what our vision is for taking Bermuda forward.".

The speech is scheduled to start at 12.30 p.m.