Premier Pamela Gordon and Progressive Labour Party leader Jennifer Smith.

PLP campaign committee chairman Calvin Smith said: "We will do it as soon as possible.

"But we will weigh it and think about it to make sure when we finally do this it will be with the intention of informing Bermuda about what is happening and what they have a right to expect to take place as a result of the General Election.'' Mr. Smith was speaking after his United Bermuda Party opposite number Michael Winfield said it was hoped the head-to-head would take place within two weeks "at the latest.'' But Mr. Smith said the PLP would not be used as a tool to promote Ms Gordon's leadership.

He added: "It's part of the UBP programme to promote Ms Gordon -- it's not part of our programme.

"It took us by surprise because the UBP has always been reluctant to debate with us.

"Our main concern is that we are not being used as a piece of United Bermuda Party propaganda and that the real intent of this debate is to inform the people.'' And he said a two-week time frame was unrealistic from the Opposition's point of view.

Mr. Smith added: "I don't think so -- I haven't talked to my principals yet, but I'm sure they won't think so.'' He pointed out that the challenge -- delivered during a major policy speech by Ms Gordon last week, when she announced her new "contract with the people'' -- did not "come out of the blue.'' Mr. Smith said: "It's obviously part of a long-term plan...and Mr.

Winfield's statements give the impression we have agreed to all this, which is not the case.'' Mr. Winfield told The Royal Gazette on Monday that the two parties had agreed details would be worked out between the campaign chairmen.

He said that timing of the debate was subject to TV time being available and full agreement on the format of the challenge being settled.

Mr. Winfield added that it was hoped the debate would be shown on both Island TV channels, but stressed that would be subject to slots being available.