Former Police Commissioner Colin Coxall last night flatly rejected claims that racism played a part in the decision not to confirm officer Larry Smith from the post of chief inspector to superintendent.

Mr. Smith, who is black, issued a writ against Mr. Coxall in May, 1995, when his appointment to superintendent was not confirmed by the Public Services Commission following a six month probationary period.

The writ was based on the grounds that the demotion back to chief inspector "flouted natural justice''.

The decision was taken shortly after former Assistant Commissioner Wayne Perinchief was forced to retire.

He later won a case for unfair dismissal on the grounds that his position was never abolished.

Mr. Smith's lawyer at the time, Julian Hall, said in May, 1995: "There is a concern that the plan is to promote certain white officers and to discourage senior black officers.'' Police announced last week that Mr. Smith has been reinstated as superintendent retroactive to May, 1995 -- meaning he will receive substantial back pay.

Last night Mr. Coxall, who left Bermuda in 1997, told The Royal Gazette , that he dismissed claims of racism in the hiring and firing of officers.

"It is entirely without foundation to suggest that I or any other senior officer based promotions on a racist agenda,'' he said.

"In any case, the decision was made by the Public Services Commission and the Governor.'' In January of 1995, then-Ch. Insp. Smith made a strong statement attacking the appointment of two overseas officers to top positions in the Bermuda force.

He said: "I don't think we need someone to come here and tell us how to suck an egg.'' POLICE POL