A SOUTH Tyneside councillor has challenged party leaders to a pre-election public debate.
Coun David Potts, leader of the Conservative Group on South Tyneside Council is calling for a debate to be held between the borough's various political leaders ahead of next May's local elections.
The Cleadon and East Boldon representative said th
e debate would give residents a "unique insight into the thoughts and policies of the various parties.".
He said: "It's vital that borough residents are aware of where we stand on the issues facing South Tyneside. Our constituents have a right to know.
"An event such as this would be fantastic for local democracy. I would call upon an independent member of the public to chair the debate to ensure fairness."
His call echos that of the BBC, ITV and BSkyB who jointly proposed three live debates between Prime Minister Gordon Brown, Tory leader David Cameron and Lib Dem leader Nick Clegg.
Brown has confirmed he is willing "in principle" to take part in a TV debate ahead of the election, while the other two leaders welcomed the move.
However, the Scottish National Party has threatened to scupper it.
The party warned it would seek to block the screening in Scotland of any debate which did not include its leader, First Minister Alex Salmond.
Coun Potts added: "The local elections are a good few months away, which is why I am laying down this challenge now.
"I would relish the opportunity to have a full and frank debate with group leaders on South Tyneside Council. This is democracy in action and such an event is unheard of in the borough."
