indication that she will not contest her St. George's South seat in the next election, Premier Pamela Gordon said yesterday.

The Premier's comments came after an article in The Royal Gazette last week which suggested that Mrs. Bell may not run.

Ms Gordon said:"It is my aim to ensure that the United Bermuda Party remains the Government.

"I can say to you that I have had no indication that Grace Bell intends to step down. I even had a discussion with her.'' Ms Gordon said that she spoke to Mrs. Bell at least twice before the article appeared and after the story ran.

"As it stands, Grace is a sitting member,'' she said. "But everyone gets shifty feet when they are unsure of where things are going.

"I know that she has had a hard time. The talk shows have not been as kind to her but she has worked really hard.

"As far as I am concerned... there is a place for Grace Bell as long as she continues to make it clear to me that she wants to run.'' TEAM MEMBER -- Grace Bell POLITICS PTL