SIR Sean Connery has pulled out of a planned debate at Scotland's Festival Of Politics, after his opponent said he would question the acting legend about domestic violence. The former James Bond star caused controversy when he declared, "Sometimes there are women who take it to the wire. That's what they are looking for - the ultimate confrontation. They want a smack." Connery later attempted to claim the quotes were taken out of context. Last week (14AUG06), Connery's ex-wife Diane Cilento claimed the actor had physically abused her in 1965, saying, "I felt a blow to my face and was knocked to the floor and passed out for a few seconds... I got to my feet and tried to fight back, but another blow sent me flying." Connery, a staunch Scottish National Party (SNP) supporter, was set to have a debate with the festival's Presiding Officer GEORGE REID, who vowed to ask the actor about his views on domestic violence. Despite attending the Edinburgh film festival, Connery has pulled out of the politics event this week (ends25AUG06).