the Taxi Advisory Committee, claiming its role was redundant.

He said the group, whose members are elected by the Government, and its efforts were being duplicated by the Special Advisor on the Taxi Industry and the Bermuda Industrial Union.

He said members of the advisory committee had agreed the decision when they were informed.

Dr. Brown said: "In examining the role of the Taxi Advisory Committee, it was obvious that there was a definite duplication of the committee's role, the responsibilities assigned to Mr. El James, as Special Advisor on the Taxi Industry and the role of the Bermuda Industrial Union, which now represents the taxi industry.

"Therefore, I saw no reason to keep a body in place which had no statutory responsibilities and were appointed only in an advisory capacity.

But he said the efforts of the committee should be recognised. However, last night, feelings were mixed about the dissolving. Member Leonard Holder said nobody had spoken out against the committee being discontinued and he felt taxi drivers would now be able to "talk with one voice''. He added: "Taxi drivers are to represent themselves, rather than people being elected to do it.

"It was not altogether a surprise. The taxi drivers have been asking for this for some time.'' But committee member Wesley Jones said he was still unsure about the change.

Member Gilbert Pearman said he was not shocked.