Assembly unanimously backed him as the first black Speaker of the new Parliament.

Now Mr. Lowe, who stood in for former Speaker Ernest DeCouto as Deputy Speaker under the former UBP Government, will inherit the wig, gown and gavel which goes with the job of keeping order on the floor of the House of Assembly.

And MPs also united to back PLP veteran Walter Lister as the new Deputy Speaker.

PLP backbencher Reginald Burrows -- who nominated Southampton East running mate Mr. Lowe -- said: "In doing so, I'd like to break with tradition.

"Mr. Lowe brings to us a wealth of experience. Not only has he contested successfully nine elections, he has served as chairman under six Speakers.

"He is eminently qualified to be the first black Speaker of this Chamber.'' Opposition MP John Barritt said: "We are pleased to second the motion for the Honourable Member for Southampton East.'' All 40 Members of the new Parliament were sworn in before the new Parliament got down to business. Earlier, the start of proceedings was delayed, with almost half of the new Government's MPs absent during the opening prayer, which started just after 10 a.m.