David Burt assured students living overseas last night that “Bermuda is a first-choice option for Bermudians”.

The Premier emphasised the Progressive Labour Party government is creating new jobs for students to return home to as he delivered a speech to more than 130 people at the Bermuda Reception in The Clubhouse, Central London. He said: “We have increased job-training opportunities to help prepare Bermudians to fill jobs that are held for guest workers.”

He added: “While I encourage you to gain as much experience as you can here in the UK, we do want you to come back and share your knowledge and your expertise at home.”

The Premier also addressed those that have left the island because of the high cost of living, saying that the Government is working tirelessly to reverse that situation.

He said: “Bermuda should not be a place to be enjoyed by visitors and guest workers alone, while many of those in the community cannot afford to live in their own country.”

The Premier also said that the Price Control Commission Act, which he tabled in the House of Assembly on Friday, would give more “control and power” to the existing price control commission in Bermuda, and examine ways to reduce the cost of living.

During a question-and-answer segment, Mr Burt also discussed plans to tackle the education system, racial inequality, the value of Bermudian passports and the controversial Domestic Partnership Bill.

He said: “We are making sure we carry out our platform promise that same-sex couples and heterosexual couples have similar legal protection under the law.

“We believe that we are making the best decision we can to take into account both sides of the issue.”

Mr Burt won favour with the audience, with one Sandys resident who was visiting her daughter in London, telling The Royal Gazette: “I have great confidence in the PLP and their vision and what they are doing for the country.”

Alicia Kirby, a master’s student at Goldsmiths, University of London, said: “I think that the Premier’s engagement was very admirable.”

She added: “I think it’s important for Bermudians of all demographics to come together and participate in conversation that affects us both abroad and at home.”

Throughout this week, the Premier will be meeting with Prime Minister Theresa May and representatives from other Overseas Territories, as well as taking in meetings in Paris and Berlin.