Axed Premier Jennifer Smith is to remain living at the Government-owned residence “The Laurels” while a security review is done, it has emerged.

New Premier Alex Scott said he was not keen to move to the plush residence in Middle Road, Devonshire, although he agreed some wanted her out minutes after her resignation.

“I as Premier have concerns about (Ms Smith's) security,” he said. “Here is someone who held the office of Premier and for all intents and purposes is carrying the weight of that office into her private life.”

However, Opposition leader Grant Gibbons urged Mr. Scott to be “honest and up front” about any agreement he may have reached with Ms Smith over the house. “I'm sure he would not want to give the impression that a special deal has been negotiated behind closed doors at the taxpayer's expense.”

He added: “There may be a concern for security but surely it is a matter that can be dealt with quickly and efficiently by the Police.”

Mr. Scott said he requested the security review about her status and his, and wanted to treat Ms Smith and the public coffers equally fairly.

“I am holding desperately to staying where I am unless my wife makes other plans. She's the one that can put me out of the house but the others I think I have a little authority over.”

Last night, an unoccupied police hut remained outside “The Laurels”. But last night there was a Police paddy wagon parked outside Mr. Scott's Paget home.

Of the ordered Police review, Mr. Scott said: “I was concerned about her (Ms Smith's) security. It had proven to be benign, (but) there was a threat against her.”

“Not that I anticipate that anyone would threaten her safety from the party but it was certainly an exceptional few days and I want to make sure the Police are satisfied there was no threat against her in that regard. The moment I know just where we are I will inform the public.”

Ms Smith was the first premier of Bermuda to live in “The Laurels”, which was occupied by former Attorney General Elliott Mottley until he quit his job in 1998.

She spent more than $40,000 on furnishings and fittings, partly because of the fact that Mr. Mottley took all of his furniture, which he had brought with him from Barbados, back home with him.

At the time, then Works Minister Mr. Scott defended the cost, and said: “I don't know if she bought the best, I think that's appropriate. It's for the Premier's office.”

But when Ms Smith moved in it was not certain that “The Laurels” would remain as the residence for subsequent Premiers.

In 1998, Mr. Scott said: “At any given moment in the years to come, it could be for a future Premier or for another Government purpose.”