Theo calls for local debates

10.18.00pm GMT Sat 6th Mar 2010

Theo Butt Philip, Liberal Democrat candidate for Bridgwater and West Somerset, has issued a challenge to all other candidates in the forthcoming election to take part in at least two public debates as part of the election campaign.

A General Election must be called before June this year and so far no public debates have been scheduled for all candidates.

Theo Butt Philip is proposing that, as a minimum, all candidates should agree to take part in one debate in each of the two largest towns in the constituency, Bridgwater and Minehead.

Theo said:

"This year people will finally be able to watch a televised debate between the three main party leaders for the first time.

"I believe local people here in Bridgwater and West Somerset deserve the opportunity to see those of us who are seeking the honour of representing them in Westminster debating with each other too.

"I am therefore asking all prospective candidates who have been selected for this constituency to agree to take part in public debates between now and election day."