MP Burt on DPP’s swizzle probe

Opposition MP David Burt has responded to a complaint allegedly about him marketing his family’s traditional rum swizzle online.

“Rather than shy away and make excuses,” he said in a statement, “I would like to acknowledge that this [the setting up of a website] has occurred, and explain I acted in good faith, although in hindsight I realise it may have been ill advised... I acknowledge that I should have thought my actions through more carefully.”

Mr Burt said a complaint had been made to the DPP.

He also said: “My family, like many Bermuda families, has been making swizzle for years. It is a tradition that I learned from my father, and it is a tradition that I share with my colleagues and friends, especially during the Bermuda Day and Cup Match festivities.”

Mr Burt said he had delivered a bottle to the Premier and his Cabinet yesterday in the spirit of the Cup Match holiday.

 But given “the distinct political and legal implications” of the DPP’s involvement, “it would be inappropriate for me to comment any further about this matter this time”.