Broadcasters to go ahead with planned TV debates

Broadcasters are to go ahead with the three televised leaders' debates despite the Prime Minister saying he will only take part in one.

In a statement the broadcasters said: "Some 22 million people watched the leaders' debates in 2010 and there is a public desire and expectation for them to happen again in 2015.

"The broadcasters proposals have come after extensive work over the last six months to ensure the public have the opportunity to watch televised election debates once more.

"The group have worked in an independent, impartial manner, treating invited parties on an equitable basis. They have listened to the views expressed by all parties and adapted the proposals to take into account electoral support."

They added: "The broadcasters will continue to work closely with all parties invited to take part in the televised debates to bring them to their millions of viewers across the UK.

"The heads of news of all four broadcasters would welcome the opportunity to meet Mr Cameron, or his representatives, to discuss the debates."

It comes after Mr Cameron proposed a "final offer" of taking part in one TV debate involving all seven political party leaders.