Civil servants appointed by the Public Service Commission do not need a work permit, said Immigration Minister David Burch last night.

Col. Burch's comments came after a story appeared in yesterday's newspaper concerning former Attorney General Phil Perinchief's bid for nearly $1 million in damages in a continuing legal battle over his failed attempt to become Solicitor General.

Mr. Perinchief has served a writ against Attorney General Kim Wilson, the Public Service Commission and Governor Sir Richard Gozney, following the appointment of British lawyer Barrie McKay last year.

He said: "You see all the time, Minister (David) Burch coming forward, saying if there's a suitable Bermudian we will put the Bermudian in place.

"How does he answer the question that he's signed off a work permit for a non-Bermudian when he knows there's a fit and suitable Bermudian, i.e. myself."

Col. Burch was surprised at the comments made by the former Attorney General and moved to respond to the comment that "he's signed off a work permit for a non-Bermudian" in the position of Solicitor General.

He said: "Mr. Perinchief's statement is incorrect. Under section 59 of the Bermuda Immigration & Protection Act 1956, persons in Government employment and appointed by the Public Service Commission do not require a work permit."