their skin colour.

The poll is being carried out in Bermuda by New York-based polling firm, Penn and Schoen.

The Royal Gazette understands the Bank of Butterfield asked the company to conduct the survey, although there was no official confirmation of this yesterday.

Among the questions asked are: Are you in favour of Independence? How did you vote at the last election? If certain MPs support Independence, would that influence your decision? Do you need more education on Independence? and Do you think Premier the Hon. Sir John Swan is doing a good job? One of those polled was Mrs. Jeanette Larson, from Knapton Crescent, Smith's.

She said she was interviewed over the phone last week by a woman from Penn and Schoen.

"It was very repetitious, and lasted about 15 minutes. I would point out the woman was very nice.'' One question, however, did cause surprise, said Mrs. Larson.

"I was asked if I was black or white. I was surprised because I don't see the significance of what colour people are.'' Mrs. Larson said she was strongly opposed to Independence, and was not influenced by the poll at all.

Yesterday UBP officials denied the party was behind the survey -- despite radio reports to the contrary. Penn and Schoen regularly carry out UBP polls.

Sources told The Royal Gazette the Bank of Butterfield was behind the survey.

Yesterday, however, the bank's president and chief operating officer Mr.

Michael Collier was off the Island and unavailable for comment.

"Mr. Collier is the only one who can speak to you,'' said a spokeswoman.

A spokesman for Penn and Schoen said information about the poll was confidential.