THE Jamaica Labour Party (JLP) says it is committed to providing the legislative framework for Jamaica to be promoted as an offshore financial centre, should the party be victorious in the August 27 general elections.

The commitment was one of several given to the public as the party launched its manifesto at the Jamaica Conference Centre downtown Kingston last night.

Opposition Leader Bruce Golding said the main activities would be in downtown Kingston, and would be the fulcrum for the redevelopment of the city. Forming part of the redevelopment programme, he said, would be the Fort Augusta peninsula.

It will also include Port Royal as a duty-free centre and a cruise ship destination, incorporating its rich history.

The plan was first mooted by the Opposition some years ago by its then leader and former Prime Minister Edward Seaga.

Seaga wanted the area to be promoted as a major freeport that would rival Panama.

Golding said the government would facilitate the businesses, but they would be investor-driven.