Switzerland to rub shoulders with VIPs from across the world.

With Parliament opening on Friday, the Hon. Sir John Swan said yesterday he had no time to attend the World Economic Forum.

"There are other matters which need to be addressed,'' he explained.

The Independence controversy was one concern -- but did not top the list, he added.

Instead, Finance Minister the Hon. David Saul is the political head of Bermuda's delegation to the January 26-February 1 forum.

Dr. Saul flew out last week to Davos with local bankers and businessmen.

He will return to the Island tomorrow night to help with Government's preparations for Parliament.

Dr. Saul will also unveil his Budget to MPs in February.

Sir John was anxious to scotch rumours Dr. Saul had been summoned back early.

"That is not true,'' he said.

Sir John normally attends the meeting which is hailed as a gilt-edged chance for Bermuda to showcase its international business.

And he had intended going this year.

"Yes, that is true, as was published, but there were other matters which needed to be addressed,'' said Sir John.

"I have no plans to go now. Dr. Saul has gone there with others, so we will be well represented.'' Sir John said the problem of military pull-outs from the overseas bases needed his close attention.

And with the reopening of Parliament on Friday, Government's workload was even greater.

The Independence rumpus, however, was "not too much of a factor'' in the stay-at-home decision.

Said Sir John of the UBP: "We are now up and running, and getting into focus on various issues.

"We are certainly making headway.'' Sir John stated last Thursday night's United Bermuda Party caucus meeting resulted in a commitment to a Commission of Inquiry and Independence referendum.

And he would make an announcement to MPs on Friday.

"I would say of the caucus meeting we arrived at a consensus after considerable discussion,'' said Sir John.

"We recognise diversity in the party. It's a party which cuts across a broad spectrum of the community.

He said the party embraced many ideas and philosophies, while sharing a common destiny.

Sir John was unaware of any plans for rebel UBP MPs to vote against Government in a show of hands on an Independence referendum.

"I haven't heard anything about this.'' With only a 21-18 majority in the House of Assembly, Government is in a precarious position.

Last week, ex-Cabinet Minister Mrs. Ann Cartwright DeCouto, who resigned her portfolio over the Independence issue, said she might not back Government, exposing herself to the risk of disciplinary action.

But Education Minister the Hon. Clarence Terceira, an opponent of Independence, said he would not defy Government.

He would vote for the motion to hold a Commission of Inquiry.

Dr. Terceira said the motion would be laid before MPs on Friday, and probably voted on mid-February.

"I would expect Government to win,'' he added.

Economic gathering gets mixed review -- Page 5.

POLITICS PTL