LOCAL ELECTIONS DEBATE: GLOUCESTER

Channel 4 News is the first network to confirm plans for a national TV debate of the main parties contending in upcoming local elections.

‘The UK Decides: Local Elections Debate’ will take place on Thursday 25 April in Gloucester ahead of polling stations opening on 2 May in England.

The television event from the national daily news programme comes as part of Channel 4 News’ ongoing political coverage in the lead up to the general election, expected to take place later this year.

A small, representative studio audience will have the opportunity to pose questions to party representatives, in the live debate hosted by presenter Krishnan Guru-Murthy.

Channel 4 News Editor, Esme Wren, said:

“Channel 4 News has an outstanding record of covering UK politics in depth.  We know local constituencies – particularly in marginal seats – will tell a compelling story in the lead up to the general election so it’s vital our viewers have access to the main parties and their policies as voters head to the polls. Stimulating debate is central to our remit and we know this will be a fascinating television event from one of the UK’s flagship news programmes.”

Channel 4 News Presenter, Krishnan Guru-Murthy, said:

“This is a seismic year for British politics. With local councils struggling to pay for public services, May’s local elections are the first big test for the main parties and the outcome could dramatically change national politics too. We look forward to staging a major debate in Gloucester with voters questioning politicians from the main parties.”

‘The UK Decides: Local Elections Debate’ will be broadcast on Channel 4 News at 7pm GMT and across the programme’s digital channels.

Further operational details will be shared in due course, including venue and panellists.

Registration for this event has now closed.