Rosemary Barton

He was a guest on the very popular Quebec show, Tout le Monde en Parle (pre-taped this past Thursday).

We were travelling from Hamilton to Guelph at the time, but because of the fancy technology of my French colleague, we were able to watch it live on a computer.

Layton did well on the show. He managed to get through his key messages on the environment and Afghanistan.

He criticized Bloc Québécois Leader Gilles Duceppe, pointing out that part of Duceppe's bid for votes includes accepting the idea that Stephen Harper remain prime inister.

And Layton held his own with the quick wit of the hosts and other guests as well as the fast French jokes.

The host, Guy A. Lepage, called him "un bon Jack," an expression that translates to a "good guy."

I guess we'll see Tuesday whether being a "bon Jack" is enough to get Layton more seats in Quebec.

— Rosemary Barton