Sports Minister Randy Horton says he will not "rush to judgement" over the circumstances surrounding the death of power boat racer Stuart Smith.

Horton was responding to calls from Shadow Sports Minister Cole Simons for a Government inquiry into the death of Smith, who was killed during this year's Around the Island race.

"While I have some concerns, just as others do," Horton said. "There are prescribed procedures that are carried out by the authorities to ascertain the circumstances relating to any accident.

"This process must be allowed to take its course without any interference or rushed conclusions. The authorities must be able to interview witnesses freely and assess safety procedures and safety equipment associated with the sport."

When the report was complete, then an assessment could be undertaken.

"In the aftermath of the tragedy, my Ministry, through its technical officers, has maintained contact with the Governing body of this sport," Horton said. "We have discussed existing safety procedures and policies relating to powerboat racing, including the issue of spectator safety.

"This consultation will continue and if there are any issues arising from these discussions that require further review or collaboration with other authorities, not currently involved in the review, these matters will be taken up with those authorities."

In the meantime, the Minister said he would urge all witnesses to the accident to cooperate with authorities so an accurate assessment of the incident could take place.

"There are inherent dangers in many sports and motorsports may carry a greater risk than others," he said. "Participants accept this risk and sport authorities seek to protect the interests of their members by imposing rigid safety standards.

"Despite these efforts, accidents do happen and sometimes result in death. These accidents, although rare, cause governing bodies to come under public scrutiny.

"However, if we approach this review carefully and systematically, as the authorities are now doing, the participants and all parties concerned will ultimately benefit."

Horton said his ministry would assist in any way it could and stood ready to work with the Bermuda Power Boat Association "to ensure that its sport continues to have a safe track record and that public safety is also assured".

Horton said, once again, his sympathies went out to the family and friends of Smith.