NICOLA Sturgeon has branded any TV debate on Brexit between Jeremy Corbyn and Theresa May “an absolute travesty of democracy”.
The First Minister tweeted that the programme must only go ahead with representation for all options on Brexit – including remaining in the European Union.
The BBC yesterday confirmed Theresa May will take part in a televised debate on her Brexit deal, with the organisation confirming it was in talks with both Labour and the Conservatives to discuss a format.
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Prior to the announcement from the BBC, the SNP, LibDems, Plaid Cymru and Greens had demanded to be involved in any TV debate to ensure a range of views was reflected.
After the BBC announced the PM had confirmed she would take part, the First Minister tweeted: “If this or any Brexit TV debate goes ahead without all options – including that of remaining in the EU – being included and given a voice, it will be an absolute travesty of democracy.”
LibDem leader Sir Vince Cable later said May was “running scared” of debating with those opposed to leaving the EU.
“May is running scared of the real opposition. A debate shouldn’t take place between two cosy Brexiteers,” he said.
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“The public demand the full facts and figures on the cost of Brexit. They also deserve to hear all the options. A People’s Vote, including the option to remain, is the only real alternative. I will make that case anytime, anywhere.”
Cable has written to broadcasters – including BBC director general, Tony Hall, chief executive of ITN, John Hardie, and head of Sky News, John Ryley – to argue for fair and balanced representation in the debate.” You will be aware of reports indicating the Prime Minister wishes to engage the Labour leader in a televised debate on Brexit.Their clear preference is this should be a head-to-head debate between the two of them. It is easy to understand why this suits their respective party-political agendas. But two leaders who are both committed to Brexit offers little in meaningful debate. We hope you will agree this is unsustainable and would lack relevance or political balance,” he said. “The Liberal Democrats are advocating a vote on the Brexit deal, with the public being given an option to remain in the EU... The BBC editorial guidelines state the need to “aim to give due weight and prominence to all the main strands of argument and to all the main parties”.
The calls by SNP, LibDems, the Plaid Cymru and the Greens were rejected with the PM saying she and Corbyn represent almost 90% of MPs. The debate is scheduled for December 9, two days before MPs vote on the deal.
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