The Editor, Sir:

The initial principle of inclusiveness as enunciated by Prime Minister Bruce Golding seems to have eluded him. The interpretation was that he was promoting harmony and unity between the political parties. However, his recent remarks about the opposition party's "intellectual depravity "and "having termites eating their brain" appear to be totally contrary to these principles.

Your letter writers' description of the opposition party's objection to the statements as being "cry babies" is also unfortunate.

In these sensitive times when there is a delicate balance in the harmonious relationships between the political parties and antagonistic attitudes are displayed by some party members as well as the population as a whole, high-ranking and other political party members should be more carefull in the manner in which they address one another.

Deriding one another is quite normal but the manner and place in which this is done should be selective. It is quite acceptable in private groupings but could have negative consequences if done in public considering the vulnerability and sensitivity of some supporters.

Our high-ranking and other political leaders should, therefore, be more diplomatic and professional in their expressions especially as it impacts on the ordinary mind. There are enough conflicts and moral decline in the country. Let's not contribute to the process anymore.

I am, etc.,

ALFONSO F. JACQUES J.P.

Padmore, St. Andrew