Outgoing Royal Gazette Editor David White was yesterday praised by MPs.

But the Government side injected a sour note as Opposition MPs congratulated Mr. White on his long career.

Many PLP MPs jeered and sneered as Shadow Tourism Minister David Dodwell and Shadow Finance Minister Grant Gibbons spoke in the House of Assembly.

And no Government MPs rose after the two had spoken to add their voices to the tributes.

Mr. Dodwell offered Mr. White "good wishes for a long and happy retirement.'' And he praised Mr. White's "tremendous support and volunteerism throughout the community as chairman of the National Trust and the National Gallery.'' Mr. Dodwell said: "This community was definitely better for his contribution and I know he won't stop.'' He added: "I know members of the now-Government used to count The Royal Gazette as our colleague.

"But I think it may well have been another Opposition.'' Dr. Gibbons said: "I think we have to recognise that, over many years, he was, in his own way, a strong political presence.'' And he added: "He certainly had the courage of his convictions and wasn't bashful about expressing them -- even if you didn't agree with him.'' But Dr. Gibbons said: "At the end of the day, we should thank him for keeping us on our toes.

"And he certainly did do what he thought was best for Bermuda.'' Mr. White retires next week after 22 years as Editor of The Royal Gazette and a 45-year association with the newspaper and its sister, the Mid-Ocean News .

He was awarded an OBE in 1993 for services to journalism and the community.

Mr. White yesterday declined to comment on the scenes in the House.

Mr. Dodwell also paid tribute to Donald French, founder of Island Press, who died recently.