House to get hip.

Being proposed are cool Bermuda shorts as "acceptable attire'' and the admission of tape recorders, lap-top computers and certain other pieces of electronic equipment -- but not TV cameras.

The committee also felt that in light of today's technological advances, Senators should be able file notices of a motions by fax. Previously they could only deliver or mail motion notices to the clerk.

In all, the Senate Select Committee which included, President the Hon. Albert Jackson, Sen. Milton Scott and the Hon. Gerald Simons, recommended the changing of seven rules. The proposed changes were tabled in the Senate yesterday and are expected to come up for debate this session.

Among them was: "The Committee took note that Rule 67 concerning the Press did not reflect the present reality of broadcasting Parliamentary proceedings nor did the rule take into consideration the new technology...'' It suggested the use of personal computers, tape recorders and calculators be allowed in the Senate .

The committee proposed the use of the above electronic equipment "as long as it was operated quietly and unobtrusively''.

Sen. Simons explained it was felt it did not make sense that the Senate sittings were broadcast over radio, yet Senators could not bring personal tape recorders into the Senate.

A Senate Minority Reports said it generally agreed with the seven proposed rule changes. But on the issue of personal computers, it felt if they were to be allowed into the Senate, "such equipment should be provided for each Senator out of the Consolidated Fund (by the taxpayer)''.

Sen. Simons said he and Sen. Jackson disagreed with the suggestion.

The Committee noted the rules did not make reference to a dress code for Senators.

But said, "The Committee recommends that Senators be permitted to wear Bermuda shorts to Senate meetings, as this attire is considered part of Bermuda's national dress.''