( L - R ) 2004, 2005, 2007 Minister of Finance and Planning, Dr. Omar Davies.

( L - R ) 2005, 2006,2007 Opposition Spokesman on finance, Audley Shaw

IN ONE of his first speeches as Finance Minister, Dr. Omar Davies named a list of items that would be exempt from taxation. One of them was hair dye.

Dr. Davies' announcement drew rounds of laughter, as it was seen as a tongue-in-cheek jab at then Jamaica Labour Party (JLP) leader, Edward Seaga, and Neville Gallimore, who was then the JLP's Member of Parliament for South West St. Ann. Both men were known for indulging in hair-enhancing products.

Well, Dr. Davies, the MP for South St. Andrew, may consider following suit. His hair was more pepper than salt when he assumed office in 1993.

Now 60 years old, the stress of managing a delicate economy and a fractious constituency has seemingly taken its toll on the steadfast minister, who is now almost totally grey.

These photographs from 2004, 2005 and 2007 show how rapidly Dr. Davies' hair colour has faded.

His JLP counterpart and fierce critic, Audley Shaw, seems to have fared better in terms of retaining some sheen to his hair. The rambunctious North East Manchester MP, who is in his mid-50s, has maintained most of his colour.

The same cannot be said for his hairline which has receded considerably during the same period.