The controversial 'Jezebel' comment made by Jamaica Labour Party (JLP) candidate for South East St. Andrew, Joan Gordon-Webley, in reference to Prime Minister Portia Simpson Miller, was not "polite", according to Opposition Leader Bruce Golding.

Mr. Golding said yesterday that the comment was not in keeping with the party's stance on respect for its opponents.

Responding to questions from journalists at a post Budget Debate press conference at the JLP's headquarters at Belmont Road, New Kingston, Mr. Golding said he would be discussing the matter with Mrs. Gordon-Webley.

Public condemnation

Her remarks, which came at a JLP meeting in Trelawny earlier this week, prompted public condemnation and an apology from the party's general secretary, Karl Samuda.

The Opposition Leader said the apology tendered by Mr. Samuda was the position of the party.

Mr. Golding however pointed out that the comment was not first made by Mrs. Gordon-Webley but was initiated by someone in the audience.

Mr. Golding said he has had discussions with Political Ombudsman Bishop Herro Blair on the matter.

He said Mr. Blair viewed the tape, which contained the controversial statement by Mrs. Gordon-Webley, and confirmed to him that during her presentation someone in the audience "said Jezebel, and Mrs. Gordon-Webley's response was, 'yes Jezebel'."

The Opposition Leader, however, added that his party was seeking to get the goodwill, even of People's National Party supporters, and this could only be achieved by "mutual respect and by being respectful of our opponents".

He said: "In that sense Mrs. Webley's acceptance of this comment that came from the crowd does not conform withthe standard that we want to lay down for reasons of politeness."