Great News About TV Debates. Time For Local Debates As Well

I'm delighted that it looks like we are going to have leader's debates before the next election. It was absurd that we are the only major democracy that doesn't have major televised debates before an election. If we are serious about re-engaging the people with those who aspire to represent them, televised debates are an absolute must.

As well as televised national debates - we need proper, town hall debates in every constituency in the country. We need to go to local people to discuss the issues that matter to local people.

With that in mind, I'm challenging my Labour and Liberal opponents to agree to a series of local, town-hall style debates across North Durham before the next election. Those of us seeking the trust of local people must go out of our way to explain to electors why we deserve their vote.