PLP Asks: Where Do UBP MPs Stand on Allegations of Nazism?
Sir John Swan has rightfully been referred to as an "elder statesman." This is reflected is his analytical approach to the question of an work permit card which he states is practical rather than discriminatory. In today's Royal Gazette, former UBP Premier Sir John Swan defended the programme and openly disagreed with his colleagues in the UBP leadership who compared the Green Card-like programme to Nazism.
Sir John opined, "In order to protect Bermudians and their livelihoods and do it in an efficient manner, Government requires a method that allows the appropriate authority to determine the right of the employee to work in their area of employment... The introduction of ID cards for Guest Workers would not prove to be offensive but convenient to both Guest Workers and the Department of Immigration."
Sir John's op-ed exposes a rift in the UBP. He supports the programme while MP E.T. "Bob" Richards said that it "smacks of Nazism." Opposition Leader Kim Swan declined to condemn MP Richards' inflammatory remarks and Tuesday's Royal Gazette reported that the Opposition Leader backs Mr. Richards "to the hilt."
PLP Public Relations Officer Mr. Wentworth Christopher responded, "Today the PLP is challenging silent UBP MPs and Constituency #31 candidate Charlie Swan, in particular, to clearly state their position on the issue."
Mr. Christopher asked, "The Bermudian people deserve to know where UBP MPs stand. What say you, Donte Hunt, Darius Tucker, Shawn Crockwell and the rest of the so-called change group? Will you stay silent thereby tacitly endorsing Mr. Richards' outrageous and offensive comments or will you join our call for MP Richards to resign?"
Mr. Christopher continued, "Charlie Swan has an opportunity to show what he is made of. Will he do the right thing, or capitulate to regressive forces? The voters in constituency #31 have a right to know before the imminent by-election."
