Conference held in Malta and Cyprus, the talk turned to Independence. The basic reaction to Bermuda going independent was puzzled disbelief. One very senior English journalist, who is very familiar with Bermuda, asked, "You're so successful now, why would you take the risk? Bermuda has it all.'' Views of the delegates from the countries to the south of us were probably the most interesting. All were from countries which have gone independent. They were united in wondering if Bermuda understands what it is considering and how hard Independence might be. Basically they pointed out that many Bermudians probably think nothing will change and are lulled by the security of what they have now but there will be great changes.

One man was forceful: "Bermuda's crazy. You escaped going independent when it was fashionable and got the best of all worlds. You wound up with much more than any of the rest of us have. Leave it alone.'' Another delegate said that no small country can ever be truly independent in this part of the world. "Britain doesn't bother you and no one else will bother you as long as Britain is there. You have all kinds of help when you need it and no problems. Be sensible. You are independent internally and that's the best. You don't have to worry about defence. You don't have the expense or the brain drain of embassies. We're going to give them up because they're useless. Nobody messes with you now but someone will.'' "If you start opening embassies and things, do you think anyone's going to listen to you. You're just going to be a blip. At least England can get your point across.'' Two or three people pointed out that if Bermuda has a problem with anthems and flags and such things, that can be taken care of. Other small dependent countries have their own flag which they use at such things as the Commonwealth Games and there is no reason for Bermuda not to do the same.

Generally the delegates from the West Indies pointed out that tiny Bermuda is considering Independence at a time when their countries are again looking at some kind of association to improve their business chances and protect themselves. Every one of them is stagnant.

Several were open in questioning which country Bermuda will ask to look after it after Independence. "Some of them will help you but they all want things back. No country gives free help, there are always strings attached.'' They also point out that Bermuda has set an example for the other dependent territories, Cayman, the British Virgin Islands and Anguilla and, more and more, these are following both the lead and the pace set by Bermuda. They are all becoming more and more successful and, by and large, reject Independence.

One evening over dinner at a table comprised entirely of small countries, both in this area and in the Pacific, there was a general discussion of how Bermuda operates successfully. At the end of dinner there was a consensus. Bermuda does not know how lucky it is.