Channel 4 is threatening to ’empty chair’ Boris Johnson in first TV debate
CHANNEL 4 is threatening to “empty chair” Boris Johnson in this weekend’s first TV debate of the leadership contest.
Sources told The Sun that the Tory leadership frontrunner was the only candidate to have failed to commit to Sunday’s planned show.
And one insider said: “There will be lecterns there for all of them.
“And we’ll keep one there for those who don’t bother to turn up so everyone can see the space.”
Gaffe-prone Mr Johnson has been dogged throughout the contest so far by accusations he is “hiding in a bunker” to avoid scrutiny.
Insiders reacted to his speech with relief after escaping without any major mistakes. One said: “At least he didn’t f**k up.”
Work and Pensions Secretary Amber Rudd turned the screw by posting an ad for a crazy golf championship taking place in her constituency in Hastings. She said “You can’t accuse these guys of hiding in a bunker.”
Boris Johnson’s campaign have repeatedly claimed they remain in discussions with all broadcasters. The BBC plans a debate of its own next Tuesday.
ITV is relying on a head-to-head debate when the final two candidates are selected. A spokesman for Mr Johnson was unavailable last night.
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