US Consul Slayton to stay

U.S. Consul Gregory Slayton is set to hold his post after the inauguration of President-elect Barack Obama, according to business figures.

Mr. Slayton, who is highly regarded among Bermuda's business elite, has had a nervous wait to see if he would have to pack his bags with the change of president.

Tradition dictates that all U.S. ambassadors offer a letter of resignation every four years, which the newly elected president chooses to either decline or accept. It is understood Mr. Slayton has been told his resignation will be turned down.

The U.S. Consulate yesterday said Mr. Slayton - pictured - would not be formally commenting until after the inauguration. However, it is common knowledge in the business world that he will be staying. Don Kramer, head of ArielRe, said: "[Mr. Slayton] has been very pro-island. The most pro-active consul we have had in years.

"He has worked hard to build bridges between Bermuda and Washington. The fact that he is staying is very positive for the island."

Courtesy of Bermuda Sun reporter Tim Hall