TV3 cancels leaders debate

TV3 have cancelled their Decision 08 leaders debate, scheduled for October 9, after John Key and Helen Clark made a joint decision not to appear in any debates with the leaders of the minor parties.

TV3 said today that a debate without the two main leaders was not viable and that they are considering screening a head-to-head debate between Key and Clark at a later date.

The leaders of the minor parties and other commentators are of course furious and believe that the move is both anti-MMP and anti-democratic.

ACT leader Rodney Hide says that TV3 should get tough and stand their ground as he believes the idea that anyone who wants to be Prime Minister can dictate to TV networks is "disgusting".