East by-election.

Francis Furbert was yesterday confirmed as the United Bermuda Party choice to contest the by-election, caused by the resignation of ex-Progressive Labour Party MP Trevor Woolridge.

But Premier Pamela Gordon was staying tight-lipped over the date for the by-election, saying it would be announced "soon.'' Rev. Woolridge -- currently working in an AME parish in the US -- left Parliament at the end of last year.

Earlier, he quit the PLP whip after being convicted of sexually assaulting a woman parishioner at the Bermuda church where he was then pastor.

That Magistrates' Court decision was later quashed on appeal to Supreme Court, but Saul Froomkin QC, the lawyer acting for the woman involved, is to appeal that decision to the Court of Appeal.

Ms Gordon said: "It is a time for healing in Hamilton East and Francis Furbert can be entrusted with that mission.

"I look forward to working with Francis in the House of Assembly. The United Bermuda Party is fully committed in its support for this man of principle and integrity.'' She added: "All of us will be assisting him in his efforts to represent the people of Hamilton East.'' Mr. Furbert faces Bermuda Industrial Union leader Derrick Burgess, who is seeking to join sitting PLP MP Renee Webb on the Opposition benches.

The BTC manager has contested the seat five times, most recently in the 1993 General Election, when he came third behind Ms Webb and Mr. Woolridge.

Mr. Furbert said yesterday: "My parents taught me to persevere and work hard.

I agree with Ms Gordon that it is time for healing in Hamilton East.

And he added his campaign would be based on a return to traditional community values in a bid to stop the rot in society.

He said: "The constituents of Hamilton East must now have their interests and concerns placed first and foremost.

"Our family and community values -- the Hamilton heritage -- must be restored to their rightful place and priority.

"Restoring these family and community values is the key to addressing every issue and problem which Bermuda faces.'' Mr. Furbert was born and raised in Hamilton Parish, regarded as a plus point in the eyes of the electorate.

The father-of-two has worked with BTC for almost 40 years and was a founding member of the union formed at the firm in the 1960s.