Chamber of Commerce -- said yesterday he does not intend to defend the charge.

"I'm not defending the charge. It's (the proceedings) dragging on,'' he said yesterday before Senior Magistrate the Wor. Will Francis.

"This is not the place to say anything,'' said Mr. Francis, noting that the accused was only before the court for mention.

West, 26, made the comments without his lawyer, Ms Patricia Harvey, present.

He was remanded in custody until his next appearance, slated for March 7.

The St. George's man must be officially served with the papers before any trial can begin.

His wife, 30-year-old Rochelle Marcia West, was stabbed to death at the Chamber office on January 5.

West was charged with premeditated murder and could face the death penalty if convicted.