Marois says no offence meant by immigration comments

Quebec Premier Pauline Marois says she didnt intend to offend anyone with comments she made about multiculturalism in England earlier this week.

In an exclusive interview withLe Devoir, Marois said multiculturalism in Britain has led to "people beating each other up and setting off bombs," because British society has no clear sense of identity.

• 'Charter of Quebec Values' will unite province: Marois
• Que. Liberals call for "open secularism"

Her comments come as the province grapples with the Parti Qubcois proposed secular charter, which would see religious symbols like crucifixes and yarmulkes banned for public-sector employees.

'The comments she made were, in no way, meant to be offensive' Parti Qubcois, on Premier Pauline Marois'comments

Opposition politicians including Liberal leader Philippe Couillard slammed Marois for her statement.

Couillard said Marois showed a "lack of judgement and knowledge."

In response tothe criticism, the Parti Qubcois released a statement on Saturday, clarifying Marois position.

"The comments she made were, in no way, meant to be offensive and did not constitute an attempt at interfering with policies practiced in the United Kingdom," the statement said.

Marois said her comments were made in the context of a conversation about models of integration around the world.

She accused Couillard of trying to distract the conversation from the secular charter.

"Instead of trying to sow discord, the Liberal leader should focus on presenting his position to the national assembly and stop giving lessons outside of the parliamentary arena," she said in her statement.