Cameron doesn't want to enter a debate where he can only lose ground. It was the same with the election in 2015 with Miliband, they calculated that by taking part in a 1-on-1 debate it would only elevate Miliband to the determent of Cameron. So he refused to take part. The same goes here, Cameron is still largely seen as moderate, pragmatic and statesman-like whilst Farage is seen but non-UKIPers are a bit loopy. They want voters to have this debate seen as Cameron vs Farage, the sane against the fruitcakes. Last thing they want to do is elevate someone serious who will add gravity and legitimacy to the Leave campaign in the mind of voters.
Vote Leave are right to be upset that Cameron is effectively blackmailing broadcasters to influence who they invite in the debate. It is a calculated and cynical move. However this is how politics works and I think it's a tad rich for senior Tories on the Vote Leave campaign to suddenly take issue with the same tactics which won them a majority. They're also incredibly naive to have thought that Cameron wouldn't put everything he has into this campaign and use every trick in the book when they've put his job on the line, the moment IDS resigned and Boris went to Leave they entered this game.
---------- Post added at 09:09 ---------- Previous post was at 09:06 ----------
Quote:
Originally Posted by Ramrod
Does the EUs stated aim of "ever closer fiscal and political union" not make you worry?
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No because it's just a symbolic phrase. I think that's what some Eurocrats want but they'll continue to face resistance from the member states and their leaders. Few of whom want that. Our change to the treaty which says 'Britain is exempt from ever closer union' is just as worthwhile as a stated aim.