Progressive Labour Party chairman David Burt yesterday announced his resignation, citing family and business reasons.

Mr. Burt, one of the youngest chairmen in the party's history who was appointed aged 27 in 2006, will step aside on October 22, he revealed at a press conference at Alaska Hall. He said he would remain an active member of the PLP, chairing its research and platform committee and serving on the candidates committee.

Mr. Burt told the media: "I have been exceptionally proud of the work we have done and know we will continue to do. However, with the commitments that I have to my family and our businesses, I've made the difficult decision to step aside."

He said he informed Premier Ewart Brown of his decision in June and told the party's executive and central committees on Monday night. His replacement will be elected at the PLP's annual conference next month. "I have chosen this time to resign as, having had the profoundly enriching experience of overseeing an election campaign in the last General Election, I believe it is now appropriate for me to step aside to open the position to a new chairman."

Declaring his continued support for the PLP, he added: "As a life member, my dedication to the party, and its leading role in shaping the future of Bermuda, is unwavering."

Dr. Brown and Deputy Premier Paula Cox interrupted yesterday's Cabinet session to join Mr. Burt for his resignation speech. The Premier thanked Mr. Burt and praised him for his "strong organisational skills" and said that under his tenure the PLP had paid off its mortgage on its Alaska Hall headquarters.