Brexit news: Why has ITV cancelled the Theresa May vs Jeremy Corbyn Brexit TV debate?
ITV has scrapped plans to air the much-hyped Brexit debate between Theresa May and Jeremy Corbyn - but what is the reason why?
Tory Chief Whip accuses MPs of ‘THWARTING’ 2016 Brexit vote
The broadcaster had planned to show the head-to-head between the party leaders on Sunday night, two days before Tuesday’s crucial EU vote.
The BBC also dropped its plans to host the same debate on Tuesday over a disagreement about the show format.
Labour said the BBC’s proposal to include a range of political parties, was a "mish-mash, with a lopsided panel of other politicians and public figures" involved.
But Downing Street derided Labour’s criticisms as “false and flimsy”.
Why has ITV cancelled the Brexit on Sunday?
ITV has pulled out of airing the Brexit debate - but it has not offered a decisive reason why.
A spokeswoman for the broadcaster said: "ITV invited the Prime Minister and leader of the Opposition to appear in an ITV programme this Sunday evening, and we have been clear that it is up to those invited to decide whether they want to accept the invitation.
"ITV is developing its plans for covering the build-up and reaction to the crucial Commons vote next Tuesday, and a range of voices and opinions will be represented on the subject of Brexit in our output."
The channel had proposed a one-on-one format as preferred by Labour.
Its decision to drop the debate means the only programme that will run will be The Real Brexit Debate on Channel 4.
The show will feature “four high-profile politicians” discussing a variety of issues connected with Britain’s exit of the EU in March 2019.
Starting at 7pm, the hour-long programme will be hosted by Channel 4 news presenter Krishnan Guru-Murphy.
What has Labour said?
Labour has accused Teresa May of “running scared” in facing Jeremy Corbyn on stage in the agreed ITV format.
A party spokesman said: “A head-to-head would give viewers the greatest clarity and allow both speakers to get into detail.
"The Prime Minister has refused to join Jeremy in a head-to-head debate.
"Her team tried to confuse people with a convoluted format.
“But the British public will see this for what it is - Theresa May unable to face real scrutiny over her crumbling deal."
In some good news for quiz show devotees, the celebrity special edition of The Chase will now be back on.