The United Bermuda Party's chairman believes Bermuda saw better days under his party than it has seen under the Progressive Labour Party.

In a speech at the UBP's Annual General Meeting Jeff Sousa said: "Just look at 30 years of our country's story when the United Bermuda Party served as the Government. They were years when this Island became a better place to live for all its citizens."

During the three decades the UBP ruled the country Mr. Sousa said young Bermudians get more scholarships and university degrees than before. Income levels also rose to "phenomenal heights, sometimes topping world rankings" and a black middle class emerged, according to Mr. Sousa.

"They were years of economic stability and steady growth when the hand of the UBP was firmly on the till," he claimed. "Keeping an eye out for threats to our well-being and opportunities to grow and expand the economic pie."

During the UBP's reign Mr. Sousa said tourism was also up and the Government and business leaders worked together to attract international businesses.

"That engine continues to power the economy enabling thousands of Bermudians to live productive, useful lives and providing thousands of families with pay cheques to feed, shelter and school their children," he said.

Mr. Sousa said his speech was aimed at reminding people of the UBP's positive efforts while in Government, and urged members not to allow the PLP to "disrespect" the party's legacy and the party's shinning stars, such as Sir Henry Tucker and Sir John Swan.