Spencer

Embattled former Deputy Shadow Spokesman on Commerce and Industry, Kern Spencer, says there may have been procedural breaches in the Cuban light-bulb project. He, however, has challenged his detractors to prove any dishonest or corrupt action on his part.

Mr. Spencer, who tendered his resignation as deputy shadow spokesman on Tuesday, November 13, said his move to step down from that position was not an indication that he had committed any dishonest act in relation to the probe into the light-bulb saga.

In a letter dated November 15, Mr. Spencer said his decision was in keeping with the tradition of parliamentary democracy.

He said the selection of the service providers in the light-bulb scheme ensured the timely implementation of the bulb-replacement programme.

"Any breach of procurement procedures arose from the desire to move quickly and efficiently," he said.

Mr. Spencer said the ministry made up a budget of more than $200 million to implement the programme, but noted that this was exceeded because some pledges from Members of Parliament to fund the project were not received.

Increase in personnel

Additionally, he said, there was an increase in the personnel to 300 Cuban social workers and more than 900 local volunteers.

Meanwhile, Opposition Leader Portia Simpson Miller has said she has accepted the resignations of former shadow minister Phillip Paulwell and Mr. Spencer.

Mrs. Simpson Miller said she is awaiting the findings of investigations being conducted by the Contractor General, Auditor General, Director of Public Prosecutions and the Fraud Squad, into the light-bulb project.