THE BBC have cancelled plans for a Brexit TV debate after Labour rejected their format, which would have involved a a studio panel of 20 politicians, commentators and business chiefs.
Jeremy Corbyn has backed ITV’s proposal for a two person, one-on-one, head-to-head discussion with the Prime Minister.
That, however, is unacceptable to Downing Street.
The BBC said they were “disappointed” not to reach an agreement on proposals for a debate.
In a statement, the corporation said: “We have been clear throughout the whole of this process that, as well as a substantive head-to-head debate, any programme we broadcast would need to include other voices, including other political parties, to reflect the wide range of views the public and parliamentarians hold about Brexit.”
Theresa May first challenged Corbyn to a live debate last week, as part of her strategy to try and win the public over to her Brexit deal.
A Labour Party spokesperson claimed: “Theresa May is running away from the scrutiny of a head-to-head debate with Jeremy Corbyn, as she did in the 2017 general election campaign.”
“When Number 10 told the media she wanted a head-to-head debate on her botched Brexit deal, Jeremy Corbyn immediately agreed,” said the spokesperson.
“Jeremy Corbyn then swiftly accepted ITV’s proposal for a straightforward head-to-head debate with Theresa May. But the Prime Minister has rejected it.
“Since then, the Prime Minister’s team and their preferred broadcaster, the BBC, have put together a confused format which would limit head-to-head debating time, with a built-in advantage for the government.”
In a statement last night, ITV said: “ITV is developing its plans for covering the build up and reaction to the crucial Commons vote next Tuesday. As part of this, ITV have invited the Prime Minister and leader of the opposition to appear in an ITV programme this Sunday evening.
“Invitations remain open. “
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