Freedom of information will be discussed by the UK Parliament's Foreign Affairs Committee in a report into governance of Overseas Territories.

It is one of the issues highlighted to a delegation of MPs visiting Bermuda, following meetings with politicians, unions, businesses and a public forum.

Andrew Mackinlay, John Horam and Malcolm Moss say they will also discuss the Island's corruption laws, education, conscription, and the omission of sexual orientation from the Human Rights Act.

Commenting on the issue of the public's right to know, Mr. Moss recommended Ombudsman Arlene Brock be given more staff to assist her in giving "individuals access to information they might not otherwise have access to".

And he warned that freedom of the Press was a cornerstone of any democracy. "Without a free Press there's isn't a proper democracy, so it's a lesson," he said.

The three MPs are visiting the Island as part of an inquiry into the British Overseas Territories. Their job is to examine how the Foreign and Commonwealth Office is carrying out its responsibilities, the role of the Governor and standards of governance.

On their return, the MPs will confer with other FAC delegations. A report is expected by July and the UK Government will then respond to its recommendations.

The MPs hope to hold a Parliamentary debate this Autumn.

Mr. Mackinlay, a Labour MP, said: "I would hope it would be of sufficient importance that we would win a slot in the Parliamentary timetable to debate it.

"This is the first time in a long time there's been this examination by Parliament of the UK responsibilities and interests regarding Overseas Territories governance. I hope this is the beginning and not the end of the process."

He described Bermuda as "a flagship of the Overseas Territories" saying: "There's a lot Bermuda can give - I think potentially it's got a leadership role to the other territories."