And debate on cutting ties with Britain should be put on hold in the "present confused political climate''.

That was the plea from the National Liberal Party, which ripped into Government and the Opposition.

The party slammed the United Bermuda Party's "dishonest agenda'' on Independence.

"The political atmosphere in Bermuda is just too polarised. The Independence process should be a unifying experience.

"In this case it is not. It is dividing and segmenting the country.

"The pattern of events leading to the sudden introduction of the Independence issue out of nowhere by the UBP has doomed the topic any fair consideration by the Country.

"The issue is further undermined by the offensive negative relationship between the UBP and PLP...

"Neither party `leaders' are demonstrating any constructive leadership for Bermuda as a crown colony, let alone as an emerging nation.'' The NLP said it was clear the UBP general membership did not support Premier the Hon. Sir John Swan's rush to Independence.

"Since he has not convinced his own party that Independence is Bermuda's immediate destiny, he is faced with the hopeless task of convincing the country.'' The Opposition came under equally fierce attack: "The PLP has made it clear that this issue is a simple matter of an inclusion in a party platform regardless of national will.

"Meanwhile the PLP is known to be a pro-Independent party -- so strongly so that any member who raised his or her doubts about Independence felt ostracised and dared not voice any doubt.''