IT HAS been unedifying, and somewhat farcical, to see, and hear, political leaders having a debate about having televised debates. Sometimes, you really couldn’t make it up.

One thing is clear – televised debates have added to the level of engagement between politicians and the public, and that is a good thing.

It is to be hoped that whatever televised debates take place, they reflect the political landscape as much as possible.

Locally, it is good to hear that all of the four so far declared candidates for the Basingstoke seat are up for taking part in public debates – and The Gazette hopes that there will be plenty of opportunity for local voters to question those who want to be their next MP.

This promises to be one of the most interesting, and unpredictable, General Elections for many years, and it is incumbent on candidates to engage with the public, and to make sure that they are open to questions about their policies and other issues.

Politics is indeed about policy and personality, and it is only through the scrutiny of, and by listening to, the candidates who want to represent, and nationally lead, them that the public can truly get a clear picture of who deserves their vote.

For its part, I am sure The Gazette will continue to do as it has always done by acting as a conduit for its readers to voice opinions and questions, and also by being an inquisitor – one that is at the heart of the local community and which has a reputation for presenting its readers with interesting, impartial and informative coverage.

Like you, I look forward to reading all about it.