The P.M.'s Bottom Line

Although campaigning politicians are obliged to press the flesh, the hands-on policy of Prime Minister John Turner, 55, has many Canadian women up in arms. During the country's national elections, the Liberal Party leader was seen on national TV patting the backside of Party President Iona Campagnolo, who astutely took the matter into her own hands by returning the pat. In another meeting, Turner touched the same base with French Vice President Lise St.-Martin who gamely rallied behind her. At least, she declared, he is less cold aloof than his predecessor, Pierre Elliott "Now we're faced with a politician a lot more, uh, I hesitate to say hot," Tremblay. "Let's say he has warmth."

Women's groups, however, were less excited about the backhanded compliment.

"It's something a ten-year-old would do," complained Activist Doris Anderson. Other prospective victims designed a "bum wrap," special form-fitting cardboard shield to be worn as a rear guard against the Turner touch. The glad-hander's explanation of his cheekiness: "I'm a hugger. I'm a tactile politician I'm reaching out to people."