Edelman Public Relations Worldwide, with offices in London, New York, Hong Kong and Toronto, has been hired by Government and BIBA to become a key player in the move to market Bermuda as a premier offshore jurisdiction.

And a toll-free number is being developed for enquiries from business interests that will create direct access for those trying to find out about Bermuda's offshore business. Officials believe that it could lead to more business for the Island.

Ranked as the fifth largest public relations firm in the world, Edelman has a specific department devoted to corporate and financial media relations.

"We are very excited about this development. Edelman's clients include banks, investment companies and telecommunications companies. Edelman represented the Mexican Investment Board during the NAFTA negotiations,'' said Mr. Greg Haycock, BIBA's marketing committee chairman.

"They have a proven track record in conducting effective media relations programmes in the financial services field,'' Mr. Haycock said.

BIBA's marketing manager, Wendy Davis-Johnson, flew to New York yesterday for talks with executives there, and continues on to the UK for meetings at Edelman's London offices.

Finance Minister the Hon. David Saul said that he was pleased at the decision to take on Edelman, after BIBA spent almost a year looking at applications from different agencies before making a final decision.

"The Ministry of Finance is pleased that Bermuda's international business industry's overseas public relations efforts will be handled by a firm of Edelman's obvious calibre,'' Dr. Saul said. "We look forward to working with their team and with BIBA as this joint initiative develops.'' Government provided a half million dollars to BIBA in this year's budget to help fund the cost of promoting Bermuda's international business efforts.

Mr. Haycock pointed out that Edelman is highly respected in New York, London and Hong Kong, where BIBA members do business.

"Although most enquiries come through BIBA members themselves, a number of enquiries of a general nature have been traditionally referred to the Government's tourism offices in overseas cities. They have done a good job in the past, but it is generally felt that it would be more appropriate to have them routed through the BIBA structure, through Edelman. That's why we are establishing an 800 number,'' he said.

Mr. Gregory Haycock.