Adrian Dix turns down one-on-one debate with Christy Clark

Campaign 2013 Leader Group Photo

By Cassidy Olivier and Frank Luba, The ProvinceApril 9, 2013 1:04 PM

A proposed television debate between Premier Christy Clark and NDP leader Adrian Dix is off. The debate was supposed to be a 90-minute telecast May 6 on Global B.C. Clark had agreed to participate, even though the Green Party and the Conservatives were not invited. But Opposition leader Dix shut the door on facing off against the premier. He criticized the tactic, noting the Liberals, after closing the legislature for long periods this sitting so they could “avoid answering the questions,” are not in a strong position to offer such a challenge. “This is an election and they [the Greens and Conservatives] have a right to participate,” he said. “And I think it is so disrespectful to the Green and Conservative parties, but also to the voters as well.” Dix confirmed that he will be participating in the two all-party debates that have been scheduled for later this month. “We are open to do those,” he said. “What we are not open to do is have the Liberal Party determine the election.” The B.C. Liberal Party was not immediately available to respond.