United Bermuda Party (UBP) MPs were handed a moral victory of sorts when ruling party backbencher Dale Butler sided with the Opposition party in the controversy over Government's overtures toward Cuba.

In a passionate speech during Friday's motion to adjourn, Mr. Butler cited human rights concerns about Cuba and told his House colleagues that the Progressive Labour Party (PLP) was barking up the wrong tree with a decision to forge close links with the Caribbean nation, especially given the party's history as an organisation which fought for human rights.

The row has been brewing since Transport Minister Ewart Brown announced that Government was considering shipping old buses to Cuba and had engaged in talks about making Bermuda a hub for the country's national airline between Europe and Cuba.

And it was further fuelled with a report in Friday's Mid Ocean News of a "secret memorandum" that had been signed between Bermuda and Cuba with Britain's approval. The Opposition has criticised Government for dealing with Cuba, saying it might harm relations with the United States.

"The dilemma is in two parts - the straitjacket we find ourselves in as a colony and our Christmas spirit. In many ways Bermuda is a fantasy island. Why would we even think for one minute of imperilling that standard of living?" asked Mr. Butler.

He pointed out the United States is the "world's policeman" which could "just wiggle its finger and our government could disappear".

While the party had its "cultural fantasies" there were political realities that has to be faced.

"Let's not mix our cultural fantasies with our political realities," he said.

He reminded the House of Assembly that the US Government had made it clear to the Caribbean nations that they had to support their stance over Iraq.

"We have a long and loving relationship with the United States of America and I don't think we should ruin that relationship with a bunch of buses, especially given your history."

The PLP, along with community activist groups, had opposed South Africa's apartheid regime and called for Bermuda to join a global economic boycott of that regime, in support of human rights, he recalled.

America, he said, simply wants to "ensure international domination" and does not take too kindly to countries that criticise it.

He argued that the buses being sent to Cuba would probably break down anyway, but Mr. Butler went on to suggest that Government send them to another Caribbean country with an unblemished human rights record.

Bermuda should face up to the fact that it is still a colony or make up its mind to "forge our own destiny," he added.

He acknowledged that the US government contradicted its own policies towards Cuba with moves to develop trade links.

"But we need to pause and reflect on the fact that the human rights record of Cuba leaves a lot to be desired."

He had no problem going against the party's position, he said, because his views reflected the principles of the party and the concerns of his 1,300 constituents.

"I was given the responsibility in this House not to be a mouse or a blind follower."