progress during a three- to six-month "probationary period,'' the Progressive Labour Party said yesterday.

Commissioner Mr. Colin Coxall and Deputy Commissioner Mr. Michael Mylod were recruited from England over strong PLP protests and a 6,000-name petition opposing the overseas appointments.

The two recently took office, succeeding retiring Bermudians Mr. Lennett (Lennie) Edwards and Mr. Alex Forbes.

In a news release, the PLP said Mr. Coxall "paid a courtesy visit'' yesterday to Opposition Leader Mr. Frederick Wade.

Mr. Wade used the opportunity to "clear the air'' about his concerns over recent comments by Mr. Coxall, Shadow Labour and Home Affairs Minister Mr.

Alex Scott said in a news release.

Mr. Coxall "in his inital Press conference at Government House made what was perceived by the Opposition Leader, Progressive Labour Party members, and members of the general public as a disparaging reference to both Mr. Wade and `the element of the community' which was unhappy with his appointment,'' Mr.

Scott said.

The PLP also told Mr. Coxall his recent comments about civilianising Police posts and community policing "come right out of the recommendations made by the PLP, the Tumim Report, and the Tumim Review Committee''.

During their probation, the PLP said the two English officers should be monitored on their progress in the following areas: Preparation and identification of future leaders of the force, and negotiating admission for Bermuda officers at top Police schools in England, Canada, the United States, and the West Indies; Reducing crime in Bermuda; Modernising the force; Continuing former commissioner Mr. Edwards' efforts to introduce community policing; Establishing an Independent Police Review Board to handle complaints against Police; and Addressing the recommendations of the Police Tumim Committee.

Mr. Coxall could not be reached for comment yesterday afternoon.

Mr. Frederick Wade