Government proposals.

And that is likely to mean new Navy-style tasks for the soldiers at Warwick Camp -- with more full-time possibilities for young Bermudians.

Yesterday's Throne Speech said Government would, in consultation with the commander-in-chief, Governor Thorold Masefield, will "consider the feasibility of enlarging the responsibilities of the Bermuda Regiment to add greater strength to Bermuda's security network and create career opportunities for young Bermudians.'' And women are set to play a bigger part in the Island's part-time army, especially with falling numbers of young men being available for service.

Home Affairs and Public Safety Minister Paula Cox was last night reluctant to reveal the hard-and-fast proposals from discussions with Mr. Masefield.

But she said: "The Regiment gives us an opportunity, just like the Police force, of enlarging the frame of reference for the organisation and providing opportunities.'' Ms Cox added: "There are some issues out there and some ways of developing and using our sea and having joint and co-operative efforts.'' It is understood non-military roles like search-and-rescue and drug interdiction, with the Marine Police, are being considered.

And she said: "There are a number of women who are going into the Regiment and we're looking at how we can diversify the role of the Regiment to take account of that.

"With women, just like in the corporate sector, we want to maximise opportunities for the whole workforce.'' Ms Cox admitted women physically would perhaps be unsuited to front-line infantry roles.

But she said greater opportunities in fields like intelligence and administration could be used to boost females up the army ladder.