next general election due to be held in the next 15 months, The Royal Gazette has learned.

Mrs. Bell, who has tried to get an audience with Premier Pamela Gordon to discuss the issue and her feelings about it, was unable to reach her leader.

Nevertheless, Mrs. Bell who intends to meet with her St. George's South UBP branch, was unwilling to comment when The Royal Gazette contacted her yesterday.

Reading from a prepared statement she said: "I am the Parliamentary representative with my colleague Rick Spurling for the constituency of St.

George's South.

"I remain committed to serving the people of that area. Constitutionally the next general election is due in 15 months and when the time presents itself I will make the decision whether to offer myself again or retire.'' The Royal Gazette learned of Mrs. Bell's desire to quit politics from two United Bermuda Party sources.

It is understood that Mrs. Bell has talked about her political future with friends over the last couple of days and it is unlikely that she will stand again in the next election.