sell Bermudians on a Commission of Inquiry and referendum on Independence.

About 100 young professionals attended the January 24 gathering and heard a pitch from the Hon. Sir John Swan.

"I think he would have liked it to come across as a pitch to get people thinking about it and spread the word that he'd like it to become an issue,'' said one local businessman who attended the party.

"The gist was that Bermuda is at a crossroads here and we've got to start making some decisions,'' said another who was in attendance.

Sir John argued in favour of a referendum, not Independence, both men said.

They said they had attended similar gatherings at Camden in the past and welcomed the opportunity to receive information firsthand and give feedback.

But while the Premier encouraged comment and questions from the floor, the surroundings meant that reaction was muted.

"I think everybody there is very respectful of the Premier,'' the second businessman said. "I always feel like I'm being manipulated.'' The meeting did not dispel concerns about the direction Government planned to take.

"I think everybody is very concerned about the timing of the issue,'' the first businessman said.

There were too many other issues to be dealt with, he said.

And while it was widely felt more information about Independence was needed, he was not sure a Commission of Inquiry was the proper vehicle for gathering those facts.

When the House of Assembly resumes on Friday, Sir John is to announce plans for the Commission of Inquiry and referendum.

The decision has sparked the resignation from Cabinet of Mrs. Ann Cartwright DeCouto as Delegated Affairs Minister.