A lively debate lies ahead in the House of Assembly today over new defence legislation, which leaves conscription intact at the Royal Bermuda Regiment.

The One Bermuda Alliance have made repeated promises to do away with the practice, but conscription remains on the books for occasions when the number of volunteers falls short.

Amendments to the Motor Car Act will also go before MPs, brought by tourism and transport minister Shawn Crockwell.

Legislators are also scheduled to debate a motion by Opposition MP Michael Weeks to discuss a “historic failure” to address the difficulties ranging from homelessness, unemployment and incarceration that disproportionally harm the Island’s black community.