A SERIES of head-to-head political debates between the three mainstream parties is being campaigned for in Burnley.

Prime Minister Gordon Brown has signalled he is ready for a US-style TV debate with his rivals David Cameron and Nick Clegg, in the run-up to the 2010 General Election.

Now Conservatives in Burnley are urging Labour and the Lib Dems to stage a similar stand-off, possibly at the Mechanics.

The Tories have said the plans would help to restore the public’s faith in politicians, in the wake of the MPs’ expenses scandal.

Richard Ali will fight the Tory cause in Burnley and Padiham at the polls and council leader Gordon Birtwistle will contest the seat for the Lib Dems.

The Labour candidate will be selected from an all-women shortlist, subject to an appeal mounted by the local party to the party’s National Executive, following Kitty Ussher's decision to stand down.

Burnley Conservative Party chairman Alan Marsden has wrote to local party representatives outlining his proposals for three head-to-head debates from December.

Mr Marsden said: “The Conservatives believe it is crucial that the people of Burnley and Padiham have the opportunity see those who would represent them on the national stage in action.

"After all, this election is about which party will form the next Government of Britain.

“Giving voters the opportunity to quiz candidates must be a good thing.

“Voters will get to ask about policies and make a real judgement. A series of debates will help restore trust in our politics. I hope that both Labour ansd the Liberal Democrats agree.”

Coun Birtwistle said: “We have responded to the invitation and said we would be happy to take part, subject to certain conditions, like whether there is an independent chairman.

“I would be the first in line for something like this and would look forward to getting involved with this.”

The invitation is not understood to have been extended to the British National Party, which will field a candidate, and the UK Independence Party, who will be represented by Cliviger lawyer Richard Rawsthorn.