Tourism — the Progressive Labour Party's Platform and policies:

— Reporting visitor numbers at 635,000 last year, the PLP's 'Progress Report' says: "The last time we reached the 600,000 threshold was 1987. Under the PLP and the leadership of Premier Ewart Brown, tourism is back!"

The tourism revival is attributed to low-cost airlines, "targeted marketing in the US and the UK", and high-profile events such as: the 25th PGA Grand Slam of Golf; the World Rugby Classic; Bermuda Music Festival; the Endurance World Open Squash Championship; the Gold Cup Sailing Regatta; and the Escape Triathlon.

— A growth in sports tourism. In the November issue of 'Tourism Now!', Dr. Brown says: "This year was particularly strong in the area of sports tourism. We're working hard to keep tourists coming to Bermuda all year round."

The Premier is reportedly in talks to encourage college basketball teams to visit the Island. The PLP say he is exploring the possibility of a showcase tour with his alma mater Howard University.

— Prestigious hotel brands. The 'Progress Report' says: "New high-end properties will help usher in what the Premier calls a 'Platinum Period' — a phase of luxury tourism designed to attract discerning travellers."

Arguing hotel capacity currently "prevents a large increase in the number of visitors", Government says it is "focused on attracting quality visitors" — those with incomes above $150,000.

— No vacancies. The PLP says: "After the recent blockbuster summer for the local hotel industry (with occupancy rates near 100 percent for much of the season) all indicators suggest 2007 will be even more successful than 2006."

— Government stresses its commitment to encouraging the younger generation to enter the hospitality industry. Dr. Brown, Minister of Tourism and Transport, has visited the Island's schools — the Tourism in Schools programme, and has established a National Youth Tourism Day to stimulate young people's interest.

— Safer ports. Due to "the dangers inherent to cruise ships and other ships navigating Bermuda's narrow channels", Government says: "We have determined that the Dockyard remains Bermuda's safest port for large cruise ships and other ships, and it has been deemed the primary port".