English Verboten?

It's an hour into the Quebec Leaders' debate and not one word of English has been spoken. M. Jean (ne John) Charest boasted of an improved education system, with a focus on a high level of French and the ability of students to communicate in English. I know he can, so why hasn't he?

Similarly, Mario Dumont was educated at Concordia, understands and speaks English, is courting the disgruntled West Island vote, but has yet to prove he has any respect for Anglo Quebecers.

M. Boisclair, decidedly unable to attract many Anglo votes, of course, has not uttered an English phrase, notwithstanding the media. On the other hand, he was framed by Dumont as promoting a federal Liberal vision and - despite his assertion that there will be a referendum under a PQ mandate - has the most federal Liberal - friendly POV of the bunch. Strange bedfellows, indeed.