Parliamentary democracy in Bermuda.

And there will be a host of events in store to commemorate the first session of Parliament which was held on August 1, 1620 in St. George's.

At a Press conference yesterday Speaker of the House, the Hon. Ernest DeCouto said: "We are celebrating our 375th anniversary of a Parliamentary democracy Government in Bermuda.

"Since August 1, 1620 we can see the progress that has been made and we want to pay tribute to members of Parliament who have served this Country during this period.'' Mr. DeCouto added: "I believe that we have been fortunate to have members of Parliament who have served us in the past with dedication, loyalty, and wisdom in introducing a frame work of legislation that has guided the development of this Country through the very difficult times to where it is today.'' Scheduled events to take place are: July 14 at 11 a.m.: a joint session will take place with (members of Parliament and the Senate) in the House of Assembly with speeches made by the Governor Lord Waddington, Lord Weatherill, the Speaker, President, Premier the Hon. Sir John Swan, and the Opposition Leader Mr. Frederick Wade. Because of space the public are not invited.

July 14: an Ecumenical service at the Anglican Cathedral at 12 p.m. The public is invited.

July 15: Speaker's Dinner at Southampton Princess. Governor Lord Waddington will be the guest speaker.

August 1: Joint session at St. Peter's Church in St. George's which is the site of the first meeting of the House of Assembly. At 6 p.m. there will be a walk to the State House led by the Town Crier. And at 6.40 p.m. the unveiling of a commemorative plaque by the Speaker in honour of the members of Parliament. At 7.00 p.m. there will be an emancipation service. The Bermuda Regiment Band will be in attendance followed by a series of activities on King's Square, followed by a variety of entertainment. The climax of the evening will be a fireworks display at 10 p.m.

The Speaker also hopes stores and businesses will flag their balconies to add to the atmosphere.

He added that members of the public can purchase commemorative coins which are expected to be available for purchase at the end of July from local coin dealers.