Opposition Leader Mr. Frederick Wade has accused the United Bermuda Party of spreading political "propaganda'' in the Island's public schools.

The UBP, meanwhile, accused Mr. Wade of politicising a children's Christmas party.

The row erupted after Mr. Wade's children brought a flyer about a planned UBP Christmas party home from school.

"It's my understanding that this flyer was sent to all of the pre-schools and primary schools,'' by the UBP, Mr. Wade said in a news release.

"Headmasters and teachers feel obliged to circulate the material as they are fearful of running afoul of the Government.

"It is offensive, politically incorrect and unacceptable that the UBP should use the headmasters and teachers of the public schools to spread their propaganda to children,'' he said. "I send my children to public school to be educated and not subjected to this type of literature.'' UBP executive officer Mr. Oliver Bain said it was "unfortunate'' that anyone would equate the holding of an annual Christmas party with political propaganda. "It is rather surprising that at this festive time of the year, Mr. Wade has seen fit to politicise what has been a long-standing annual event,'' he said. "The UBP is honoured to be able to host such an event free for all the children of Bermuda.'' The flyer said all children aged four to 12 were invited to the UBP children's Christmas Party on Sunday at Number One Shed. Face painting, carols, Santa, and magic, would be featured, it said.

"I expect Dr. Saul to instruct his Minister of Education to inform schools that they are forbidden to circulate such propaganda,'' Mr. Wade said. "I further expect whoever authorised it should be dealt with most severely by the UBP.''