would create a national youth corps to harness the talents of young people.

The corps could be compulsory, he said, perhaps for everyone under 20. It would be part of an expanded Bermuda Regiment and linked to Police and a new coast guard service.

And it could produce youngsters with the potential to step into the shoes of US Navy air traffic controllers and air-sea rescuers.

If it wasn't compulsory it could also be used as an alternative court sentence, said Mr. Wade.

He believed the corps would help prevent young people getting into drugs and crime by offering real career opportunities.

"We really believe our young people need to have an opportunity to develop,'' he said. "I think the future of our Country depends on them developing into useful citizens.

"We hope the corps will become something that people are proud to have been part of.'' The corps had featured in party platforms since 1980, but in response to "interest generated by constituents'' he wanted to expand on the idea.

"The harsh realities as to the grim choices many of our young people are making -- this week alone we heard of some who have reportedly chosen prostitution -- reinforces the need for urgent action now to demonstrate that we care and are committed to the future well-being and development of our youth.'' As well as military training, the corps could offer instruction in computers, motor mechanics, masonry, carpentry and electrical work, as well as in theatre, writing and other cultural activities.

The NYC would work alongside the Youth Ministry, he said. Corps members could be required to take Bermuda College courses.

Retired people could pass on their skills to corps members, he added.

The PLP saw the NYC as part of an expanded role of the Bermuda Regiment.

The corps would become part of a "recuitment and training facility'' for Police and the Regiment, which would expand to include a Coast Guard service.

Mr. Wade said Regiment changes would be subject to talks between a PLP government and the Governor or the UK Government.

"Members of the party have had several unofficial exploratory discussions with members of the Bermuda Regiment and UK personnel here in regard to the feasibility of training manoeuvres being conducted in Bermuda by the UK forces with mutual benefits being derived by both countries, and the proposed NYC.'' Last week St, George's Secondary teacher Mrs. Maria Martin Thacker also called for a national youth service for school-leavers.