Premier Ewart Brown is unlikely to dramatically alter his Cabinet in the aftermath of Tuesday's third straight election win, according to party insiders.

Sources in the Progressive Labour Party told The Royal Gazette yesterday that most Ministers are expected to hold onto their jobs when the new Cabinet is sworn in today — though two of the party's newly elected MPs, Zane DeSilva and El James, may be given portfolios.

One source said: "You can expect no dramatic change for the short term.

"It's Christmas time and there will be a need for some continuity while the leader looks at his various options. There are some fresh, new and exciting options."

Another party insider added: "I think we are probably going to be looking at a lot of the same people."

Several sources said Dr. Brown could be inclined to hand over his Transport Ministry to Southampton East Central MP Mr. DeSilva, who unseated United Bermuda Party heavyweight David Dodwell, and Mr. James might pick up Sport and Recreation, if it is separated from the Ministry of Education.

Former Health Minister Patrice Minors may also be on her way back into Cabinet as a reward for holding onto Smith's North against former Opposition Leader Michael Dunkley.

One of the sources said: "I would be stunned were it otherwise. She is expected to be back in Cabinet unless she doesn't want to."

A PLP MP claimed that Attorney General Philip Perinchief's head could be on the chopping block after he lost the party St. George's South.

The MP said Mr. Perinchief was not considered to have shone in the AG role and suggested that his brother Wayne, despite increasing his majority in Pembroke Central, may also suffer a demotion.

Another insider said the opposite, claiming that Wayne may be in line for a promotion from Community and Cultural Relations.

Wendell Hollis, a well-known white lawyer and former United Bermuda Party supporter, is one name being mooted for the AG's post, according to the same MP.

One PLP insider said: "That would not surprise me. He's got the experience. Ewart Brown is very committed to diversifying the PLP."

According to the sources, Dr. Brown's chief allies in his Cabinet are now seen as Social Rehabilitation Minister Dale Butler and Public Safety and Housing Minister David Burch, both of whom can be assured of holding onto top jobs. Deputy Premier Paula Cox is also a safe bet to stay as Finance Minister.

Rolfe Commissiong, consultant to the Premier, said the two men and Ms Cox were all certainties for the new-look Cabinet.

There was talk of possible change at the Senate yesterday, with one source claiming that Davida Morris is returning to college and wishes to step down from her role.

If she does, that could create a place for another young party member, such as lawyer Charles Richardson. Another option might be Marc Bean, the candidate who stood aside to allow Randy Horton to run in Southampton West despite being picked by the local party branch. Former AG Larry Mussenden has an outside chance of returning to the Senate, according to one source.

The PLP MP said Jane Correia, who ran unsuccessfully in Smith's South, might be offered a Senate seat.