PM ducks the TV challenge

Tony Blair ducked a challenge to hold a live TV debate on the EU referendum today as his policy change come under pressure in the Commons.

The gauntlet was thrown down by Tory leader Michael Howard in a rowdy Prime Minister's Questions clash over the vote on the European constitution. "I make this challenge to the Prime Minister," he said. "Will he take part in a TV debate with me where we can explore all these issues?"

Mr Blair, scenting a beartrap, instantly rejected the offer, saying: "The debate we will have is here in this House and when it is agreed here, we will have it in the country." Pointing out that the Commons itself was televised, Mr Blair added: "Let's have a debate, we are on TV."

There then followed heated exchanges.

In 1997 John Major challenged Mr Blair to a television debate - but the offer was refused.