The Premier has discussed air travel between the UK and Bermuda with Britain's Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for the Foreign and Commonwealth Office.

Dr. Ewart Brown met with Gillian Merron, MP, to also discuss tourism and strengthening links with the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association. "Ms Merron was fulsome in her praise of Bermuda's financial regulatory regime and the high quality of our shipping and aircraft Registers," said Dr. Brown. The Premier's Press Secretary said: "The two also discussed how they might jointly address the deficit in airlift from the United Kingdom to Bermuda and Ms Merron agreed to determine an effective means by which to engage the support of the UK Government in that effort."

Dr. Brown said: "That was a critical point made in this discussion and we are pleased with the Minister's willingness to assist.

"This was a very good meeting and it was a pleasure to find the Minister forthright and interested in Bermuda, and most complimentary about the significant efforts we have made to grow and maintain Bermuda's first-class reputation."

Ms. Merron is reported to have underscored the role of the new London Office for the Government of Bermuda, and also discussed means by which to engage UK MPs to foster a broader appreciation for Bermuda's position in the global insurance and reinsurance sectors.