board investigating the delay in the Independence vote.

The Commission of Inquiry opened and adjourned yesterday and will start its business in earnest today when at least four people are expected to give evidence.

On August 15, Hurricane Felix swept past the Island as Government officials decided to delay the Independence vote.

At first polling stations were told to stay closed, but the law stated they had to at least open their doors once before the vote could be delayed.

After intervention from Governor Lord Waddington, the stations opened and then shut, with the vote taking place in calmer weather on August 16.

Earlier this month a Commission of Inquiry was set up by Lord Waddington to examine the circumstances and events which led to the vote's postponement and make any necessary recommendations.

Headed by retired Court of Appeal Judge, the Hon. Telford Georges, the Commission began its work yesterday, although it only outlined its terms of reference and then adjourned proceedings, which are open to the public.

Today Mr. Mills, Deputy Governor Mr. Peter Willis, a weather expert and Parliamentary Registrar Mrs. Marlene Christopher are expected to appear before the Commission.

At the opening yesterday, Mr. Georges said: "We are empowered to make rules for our guidance and the conduct and management of proceedings before us.

"One of our principal concerns is to ensure that all parties appearing before us are treated with scrupulous fairness. We are also concerned to ensure that the proceedings of the Commission are conducted effectively and with reasonable dispatch.'' The hearing is being held at the Wesley Methodist Church Hall from 9.30 a.m.

to 12.30 p.m. and from 2 p.m. to 4.30 p.m.

Although the deadline for submissions has passed, people wishing to submit statements can do so to the Commission Secretary, Mr. Gladstone Bassett, care of the Deputy Governor's Office.