The rights and wrongs of random drug testing drew a mixed response from a sampling of the public on the streets of Hamilton.

The issue hit the headlines late last week after three drivers at Watlington Waterworks complained they had not been given fair warning of the test.

Office administrator Pat Ferguson said: "I think it's good to have random drug testing.

"If you tell them it's coming, they will be prepared. I think it's ridiculous about those three drivers wanting time to clean up their act. It defeats the whole purpose.'' American teacher and drug counsellor Ellen Hegel said: "It's fine. I fully agree with it when you think about the money it costs firms to put people through rehab and employ temps...'' However, her friend Craig Colins took the opposing view.

He said: "It's totally wrong. Next you'll have them checking to see if you've done your toenails today.'' Builder Anthony Lespere said: "I don't see why not when it's something like driving trucks.

"But my problem is that it goes so far. So what is next? The intrusion into people's privacy is already bad enough.'' Visitor Melanie Detzer said: "If you have a job where it's important to stay clean, then it's a good thing. Otherwise companies should mind their own business.'' Mechanic Richard Adlam said: "It depends on what the individual does. If you are a bus driver and drugs will affect what you do, then it's fair enough.

"If you work in an office, then it's not so critical. Everyone should know what the rules are when you start a job. But I think you should get a two-week warning before the test.'' Cosmetics assistant Terenay Burch said: "There shouldn't be any warning. If they are given a warning, they will go clean for that time. You might as well catch them in the act.'' One man, who did not wish to be named, said: "As a Christian I think people shouldn't abuse their bodies, but it's up to the individual if they want to put drugs into their system.

"I think they should be given a warning about the test.'' At odds: US visitors Ellen Hegel and Craig Collins were at odds concerning the issue of random drug tests for employees. Their views were reflected by the public -- which generally agreed that where the job warrnats -- such as driving large trucks through Bermuda's small roadways, people should be tested.

PAT FEGUSON RICHARD ADLAM ANTHONY LESPERE