The Bermuda Independence Commission makes the following recommendations:

1. Many individuals indicated that they could not vote for Independence unless they knew beforehand the details of the type of Government and constitution for which they would be voting. It is recommended that Government, after its own internal discussions and after publishing this report, engage in a dialogue with the people of Bermuda on the topic of independence. In doing so, the Government should lay out, for the people of Bermuda, its proposals with regard to the type of government and constitution and all related matters.

2. International business companies are important stakeholders in Bermuda's economy and are sensitive to the uncertainties arising from the debate on Independence. Government should consult with them to remove these uncertainties. Government should confer with the Bermuda International Business Association and the Insurance Development Council to ensure that myth is separated from reality on this issue and that they are kept fully informed. Further, Government should work with these organisations to carry this message to prospective companies.

3. The present stance of the UK Government on the loss of British nationality appears to be that in the event of Bermuda going independent, those Bermuda citizens who have now have British nationality, but no familial ties to the UK will have their British nationality withdrawn. The Government should explore, as a matter of urgency how British citizenship for those without residual connection to the UK might be retained should Bermuda proceed to independence.

4. Given the impact of race relations on attitudes towards independence the Commission strongly recommends that Government lead a process to where the diversity of Bermuda is celebrated, where opportunity is equal and where there is genuine social unity. The Commission believes this could be achieved through a process of truth and reconciliation.

5. The Government obtains from the Foreign and Commonwealth Office a comprehensive list of all of Bermuda's international treaty obligations as early as possible.

6. The Commission in its investigations identified memberships in international organisations and opportunities arising from such memberships that exist for Bermuda in its current constitutional status. The Commission therefore recommends that Government conduct a review of all international opportunities that currently exist and the many additional prospects should Bermuda proceed to independence.