A softer interpretation of Government's work permit term limits has been welcomed by Chamber of Commerce President Charles Gosling.

The policy, which began in 2001, specified six-year limits, with a possibility to extend to nine years while limits did not apply for key individuals.

Former Home Affairs Minister Terry Lister had said he wanted to see even "key" employees barred from staying in Bermuda for more than nine years - even if it meant the loss of company heads, CFOs, bankers and lawyers.

But new Premier Alex Scott stressed it was possible for people to stay beyond nine years under the current policy.

Mr. Gosling said he understood Government did not want to have an ever-growing number of expatriates becoming potential long-term residents.

But he said: "At the same time we have to be realistic at what the needs are for not only international business but for local business.

"Bermuda has a finite workforce of a finite standard. We need to bring in people from overseas to fill a lot of sophisticated jobs."

Mr. Gosling said new Home Affairs Minister Randy Horton had a reputation for listening in his previous role at Youth and Sport and he looked forward to meeting him.

Government were having meetings with business on the issue before the elections. "It's certainly welcome, this new viewpoint from the Premier. I hope this is going to turn into a good working relationship."