over its handling of several key issues involving spending.

NLP chairman Charles Jeffers has questioned the appointment of Senator David Burch as the Premier's Chief of Staff and a pay rise given to new Attorney General Lois Browne-Evans.

Mr. Jeffers said the NLP agreed with the demarcation of the position into a political AG responsible for legislative matters and director of public prosecutions dealing with criminal cases.

But he added: "We ask the Premier to justify the increase of pay of Mrs.

Browne-Evans. We do not disagree with the change. However, the job is now split between judicial and legislative.

"We also wait with anticipation to see what the PLP will do about remuneration for the DPP -- for a party that says it is determined to cut government spending, this is not a good start.'' The new AG is set to have her MP's salary of $63,000 topped up to around $125,000 -- the level paid to political AGs.

He added that dual roles of Sen. Burch could lead to a conflict of interests, when his responsibilities to the Premier could put him at odds with his work in the Upper House.

"As taxpayers, the public should have this matter fully clarified,'' he said.

Mr. Jeffers also commented on the possibility of strike action, saying a labour crisis would test their resolve and ability to handle challenges.

In addition, he called for Bermuda status for all residents who have been on the Island for 20 years or more and he challenged the PLP to be more vocal on the subject of independence and British citizenship.