importance to Bermuda of the early February Dependent Territories Meeting in London. Someone reminded us recently that there is no second chance to make a good first impression and the way Bermuda presents itself and its case in London may well set the tone for subsequent meetings.

We would urge the leaders of both of Bermuda's political parties to reach an understanding before they travel to London so that there is no impression given to the British Foreign and Commonwealth Offices that we are not together in our aims and that we are going to go on fighting about any suggestions which are made after the meetings conclude. We must leave the local political baggage behind and go to London focused on what is best for Bermuda. We must not make the mistake of introducing in London home grown squabbles which will confuse the basic issues.

This is an overseas event of great importance to all Bermudians and it is one of those occasions when we should give every appearance of a unity of purpose and of a national identity. We have to do that for the sake of our Country.

This newspaper has expressed its concern before that the Bermudians should not go to London seeking some kind of back door Independence following the anti-Independence result of the referendum. That would be a grave mistake which would split the Country once again and impede progress to the future. We believe that Bermuda can come out of these and subsequent talks with enormous advantages for Bermudians, advantages very few other countries have. Any try for Independence now or any such talk in London would be sheer folly. To that end, at least one major member of the delegation has to be someone who does not support Independence.

If we are well prepared for this conference and put our case sensibly then Bermuda can wind up with the best of many worlds. We can have a future of multiple opportunities while not having to concern ourselves with our own security and making our own way in the uncertain world.

We urge the delegations to take to London Bermuda's top people and the most capable and intelligent people we can find. The Government delegation which is likely to be the most heard should be accompanied by a very good lawyer and a top Bermudian from outside politics. Let us not find ourselves with a lack of talent in the middle of important talks. What we need is for the Foreign and Commonwealth Office and the other delegations to give Bermuda the top marks we deserve.