The trial of an alleged drug importer was adjourned for the second time in two weeks yesterday after the defendant again showed up in court without a lawyer.

Assistant Justice Archibald Warner remanded Lincoln George Brown in custody for breaching his bail conditions, saying he had warned him last week that he had to get a lawyer.

The trial was adjourned last week because Brown's lawyer, Senator Larry Mussenden, did not show up. Sen. Mussenden was on record as Brown's lawyer, although Supreme Court heard the defendant had not paid his fees.

Mr. Justice Warner said last week the criminal justice system would collapse if defence lawyers did not co-operate with the courts, resulting in an increasing number of trials being adjourned.

He told Brown yesterday that he was remanding him in custody until November 3 for mention because in his view he had breached his conditions by not getting proper legal representation.

He told him: "I've finished messing around with these trial dates and people not turning up or not being ready for trial, okay?"

Brown, 36, of Rock Valley, Warwick, is charged with importing cocaine and possession of the drug with intent to supply the drug.

Brown said he tried to get a lawyer but had been turned down for Legal Aid because his household income was too high.