Michael Dugher MP, Labour’s Shadow Minister for the Cabinet Office, commenting on the proposal of Youtube leaders debates, said:

“We have always said we support the successful format of debates at the last election: three debates between the three leaders of the three main parties.

"The 2010 debates were a vital innovation which saw 20 million people engage in the election and are a feature that cannot be lost, but we will always support exploring ideas on how they can be made more innovative still. Digital is already a major part of Labour’s campaigning, we are open to new ideas and new thinking.

"David Cameron now needs to come out of hiding on this issue and immediately start negotiations with broadcasters, as we have repeatedly called for.

"Debates are a way of communicating with millions of people on the biggest job in the country. It’s time for David Cameron to stopping dragging his feet and get on with the negotiations.”