15/04/2010

First Televised Election Debate

The leaders of Britain's three main political parties will go head-to-head on national television tonight, in the first of three historic debates.

Labour leader Gordon Brown will face questions alongside Tory leader David Cameron and Lim Dem counterpart Nick Clegg on ITV, which will be followed by two subsequent debates on the BBC and Sky.

It will be the first time in history UK political leaders participate in an American-style 'presidential' questions and answers set-up prior to a General Election.

Tonight's 90-minute programme will be anchored by ITV broadcaster Alastair Stewart in front of a live studio audience in Manchester.

The subject debated by the panel from 8.30pm will be domestic affair.

All three men will continue on the campaign trail before the broadcast.

Tight guidelines have been laid down by political advisers. There will only be applause at the beginning and end of the programme. Audience members will ask pre-agreed questions and not interject, while all three parties will have a direct line to the TV gallery to highlight anything transmitted that they feel is unfair to their panelist.

It is believed Mr Brown will stand on the right podium, Mr Cameron the centre and Mr Clegg on the left.

(PR/NS)

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