demands of long-term residents, the Premier said last night.

The Hon. Sir John Swan said Government was looking at lowering the age at which people become adult in law -- the age of majority.

Lowering it from 21 could meet some crucial demands of the Portuguese community.

Among other aims, they want the law changed so non-Bermudians born in the Island can apply for status at 18, instead of 21.

Government is examining the Island's laws to see which ones would be affected by a drop in the age of majority. The law on applying for status could be one of those changed.

Sir John said the subject was discussed in talks between Government and the Portuguese Bermudian Organisation, formed last year to fight for long-term non-Bermudian residents.

"That's something we did discuss with them with a view to being able to accommodate some of their concerns. There are over 200 laws that have the age of majority mentioned in them, which would have to be altered. That whole exercise is being done now, in terms of looking at the laws and how it can be done. But these things take time.'' Sir John said he was not surprised or upset by the PBO appeal to Britain.

"It's something they feel strongly about and I respect them.'' But he pointed out: "The British Government is responsible for external affairs, our defence and our internal security. Other matters that relate to Bermuda's affairs are matters for the Bermuda Government.

"It's a matter that has been brought to our attention by the Portuguese community and we have given an undertaking that we will look at what can be done, that not only affects the Portuguese community but affects the community as a whole.

"We have said to them that when we've had a chance to look at it we'll respond accordingly.'' On Wednesday it was revealed the PBO were lobbying the British Foreign Office in a bid to put pressure on Bermuda and speed events up.

The organisation also calls for the easing of work restrictions on non-Bermudian students, and equality in applying for scholarships.