Assembly.

Erwin Adderley is understood to be seriously considering seeking selection to fight the rock-solid United Bermuda Party seat of Pembroke West.

Party insiders said yesterday that Mr. Adderley, former Director of Planning and now in private practice, was likely to make a formal approach to the constituency party.

But Mr. Adderley last night was playing his cards close to his chest.

He said: "I have expressed an interest -- I wouldn't put it higher than that.

"I am weighing it up and whenever I make a decision, the branch will be the first to know.'' Mr. Adderley -- an approved candidate for the UBP -- is the first contender to throw his hat in the ring, although there are expected to be others.

Branch chairman Michael Hollis said: "A number of people have expressed an interest, but we are still sorting things out.'' But a party insider said Mr. Adderley, as a private consultant, would be able to spare the time needed for an effective Parliamentary career, as well as bring specialist knowledge to the Government benches.

Traditionally, UBP members in Pembroke West have supported candidates y with strong local connections rather than an outsider.

Mr. Adderley lives in Paget -- where he is on the Paget East branch committee -- but was brought up in the Pembroke West area.

The vacancy in the constituency was caused by Youth and Sport Minister David Dyer's decision to quit politics for personal reasons.

It is believed the Minister, appointed under previous Premier David Saul, was finding it increasing difficult to balance his political commitments with the demands of a sole practioner's dental practice.

Dr. Dyer is expected to formally step down at the end of this month.

It is understood that former Youth and Sport Minister Tim Smith has emerged as frontrunner for the vacancy at the Cabinet table.

Erwin Adderley