Middleton murder trial should be taken seriously.

Canadians, and especially those in the Belleville, Ontario area, are understandably upset at the collapse of the case against Justis Smith, which has, as we have stated before, pointed up major problems in the investigation of the Canadian teenager's brutal murder.

But we are not convinced that a boycott is the right way to go. Sponsors of the boycott website say they see this as the only way to force a quick resolution to the case and to get an inquiry. Once that happens, they say they will end the boycott campaign.

Nor is it their intention to hurt Bermuda's people, but sadly, that may well be exactly the result. Bermudians connected with the tourism industry who have had nothing to do with this case will suffer if arrivals fall. Meanwhile, those responsible for the handling of the case could be among the least affected.

Bermuda's reputation as a safe and well-managed Country is being severely damaged by the boycott campaign and by the continued coverage the case is receiving in the Canadian news media.

So far, the Department of Tourism and Government generally seem to be taking the approach that they should keep their heads down and wait for the storm to pass. It may be difficult to take any other course at this time, although Government would be wise to point out that this case aside, Bermuda is a basically safe place -- much more so, incidentally, than many parts of Canada.

On-Island briefing tours for Canadian travel agents would also be a valuable tool.

At least Premier Jennifer Smith has now made a statement for the Government.

On Wednesday, she said the boycott threat is a "major concern''.

She also said she cannot comment on the case pending the planned appeal, but has promised that she will use her offices to see to it that the appeal is heard quickly. That is to be welcomed.

And she acknowledged that once the appeal process is complete "there are a number of possible scenarios'', apparently including an inquiry.

She added: "While it is not appropriate at this stage for me to comment on the issues relating to a matter which is to be appealed, as Premier I should like to state unequivocally that this Government's commitment is to ensure that all the necessary steps are taken to ensure that as a Country we learn a salutary lesson from decisions taken before we assumed leadership of this Country.'' Regardless of the outcome of the case, an inquiry would do much to ensure that lesson is learned. Premier Smith would do the Country a service by keeping her commitment.