Conservatives call for TV debate
Conservative Party leader Michael Howard wants a TV debate with his opponents ahead of the next General Election.
Mr Howard wants to go head-to-head with the Prime Minister Tony Blair and the leader of the Liberal Democrats, Charles Kennedy.
Conservative Party co-chairman, Dr Liam Fox has sent a letter to Sam Younger, the chairman of the Electoral Commission, setting out plans for each of the leaders to take on their rivals in two contests.
Mr Blair would confront Mr Howard and then Mr Kennedy. A third debate would be held between Mr Howard and Mr Kennedy.
Dr Fox urged Mr Younger to back the TV contest idea as it would stir up support in the election and possibly increase the turnout.
The letter read: “Falling voter turnout should be a matter of deep concern for all of us involved in public life and the political arena. In the recent US presidential election, more than 60 million viewers watched the first debate between president George Bush and senator John Kerry.
“I have no doubt that televised debates in Britain would stimulate a high level of interest and could lead to a higher turnout.”
Mr Blair is thought to be lukewarm on the idea given his party’s huge majority in the House of Commons and strong position in the polls.
Mr Kennedy said he supported the idea as politicians appeared aloof from the general public.
