U.K. PM called sexist for "calm down, dear" jibe

LONDON - British Prime Minister David Cameron is embroiled in a sexism row after a female lawmaker accused his comments of being sexist and patronizing.

Cameron told the opposition Labour Party's Angela Eagle to "calm down, dear" during a heated debate about healthcare reform at Parliament on Wednesday.

Labour lawmakers bristled, and Eagle said the comment was "insulting and un-prime ministerial."

Cameron's office defended the prime minister, saying the jibe was a humorous remark referencing an insurance advertisement.

Cameron told Eagle: "Calm down, dear, calm down. Calm down and listen to the doctor."

Deputy Labour leader Harriet Harman said Cameron's response showed his "outdated" attitude to women.