The Editor Sir,

The People's National Party has received an invitation from the National Debating Commi-ssion to discuss the holding of debates between representatives of the two main political parties, including Party President Cde. Portia Simpson Miller leading up to the next general election.

The party has accepted the invitation to attend the meeting and will pursue discussions on the idea.

As it relates to the idea of weekly debates proposed by the leader of the Jamaica Labour Party, the answer is no. The president of the People's National Party and Prime Minister cannot reasonably be expected to prepare for weekly debates with Opposition Leader Bruce Golding, to the detriment of attending to the nation's business. Mr. Golding may have that kind of spare time but the Prime Minister simply does not.

Preparation time needed

As The Gleaner must appreciate, the preparation time for any debate is exhaustive and for the Prime Minister to build preparation time into her schedule, and another two, three hours each week for the debates, is simply impossible.

The People's National Party in principle, supports good public discourse, including debates, so long as they are balanced, objective and nationally arranged, to allow the electorate an opportunity of hearing future plans of all contenders. As a matter of fact, debates will further instill what is already widely agreed, that the People's National Party remains the best option to lead Jamaica.

I am, etc.,

COLIN CAMPBELL

General Secretary