Local papers have reported that Hertsmere Conservatives have refused a challenge from Borough Labour Leader Cllr Jeremy Newmark to participate in a series of pre-election debates in the run-up to the local government elections on 2 May this year.

Cllr Newmark said: “I am not surprised. The Tories are afraid of real debate when they can’t hide behind their abuse of procedure and their majority in the council chamber.  Local people are the losers here. My challenge remains open. If one single Tory councillor is prepared to debate the issues affecting local people we will work with them to make it happen.”

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