YORKSHIRE First, the party which campaigns for devolved powers in this region, is calling for a televised debate ahead of the General Election in May.

The group’s leader, Richard Carter, is calling on the BBC and ITV to host a regional debate among the parties standing for Yorkshire seats, some time in April.

“STV has now confirmed a live TV debate with the leaders of the main political parties in Scotland before the General Election in May. It is the first of what is expected to be several televised debates,” he said.

“There is no doubt that devolution is on the agenda for Yorkshire. All three main parties seem to be heading down the city region path while we in Yorkshire First think an accountable parliament for the whole of Yorkshire best serves all the people’s needs.

“Whatever preference, it makes sense that these issues are properly debated in Yorkshire in the same way as they will be in Scotland. That’s why we have called for a specific Yorkshire debate amongst the parties.

“Such a debate should give members of the audience the opportunity to put their questions to the parties. The BBC has already dipped its toe in the water with a panel discussion on devolution in November last year.

“Frankly if it is good enough for Scotland then it is good enough for Yorkshire.”

Yorkshire First has nine candidates selected so far, including Darren Hill to stand in Shipley.