and asked for condolences to be sent to his family.

Health Minister the Hon. Quinton Edness described Mr. Allen as a founding member of the United Bermuda Party.

He spoke of his courage as a black man running for the UBP -- when it was not popular to do so.

"He was a very courageous man who believed in the community,'' he said.

MPs also asked that condolences be sent to the family of former Sandys Secondary School head Ms Luisa Richards.

She was described as a firm disciplinarian, who made a great contribution to the community.

Deputy Opposition leader Mr. Walter Roberts said he was taught by her.

"She was a very loving person,'' he commented.

Mr. Eugene Blakeney (PLP) asked for condolences be sent to the family of Mr.

Rodney Smith, who died from cancer, aged 52.

Tributes were also paid to the late Mrs. Shirley Collier, a real estate owner.

Government whip Dr. David Dyer congratulated the Masterworks Foundation for its efforts in repatriating Bermudian works of art.

He said it had achieved another milestone in its fund-raising campaign.

Shadow Education Minister Miss Jennifer Smith asked for congratulations to be sent to Ms Betty Boothroyd, the first woman speaker of the British Parliament.

"She did not rely on being a woman to getting that position,'' said Miss.

Smith.

She also congratulated the Wor. Cheryl-Ann Mapp for becoming Bermuda's first woman magistrate.

Miss Smith went on to congratulate the Bermuda Fire and Marine Insurance company for its help in the St. David's tornado disaster.

Education Minister the Hon. Gerald Simons picked out organisers of the Heritage Exhibition, and the Bermuda National Gallery, for congratulation.

Community Affairs Minister the Hon. Leonard Gibbons sent good wishes to The Royal Gazette reporters, Mr. William Zuill and Miss Robin McPhee, who are getting married today.

"I think the whole House will wish them well,'' he said.