UK leaders clash in TV debate

INTRO: Seven political leaders in the UK have clashed in a live TV debate, which covered some of the major issues in the election...

The NHS, Britain's economy and immigration were among the topics thrown at the leaders ahead of the May 7th vote. 

Our UK correspondent Dan Whitehead brings us this report...

IN: This was the...
OUT: ...SOC, London.
DUR: 2'50"

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This was the only time that Prime Minister David Cameron and opposition Labour leader Ed Miliband will face each other head to head before May's election...

But there were five other major party leaders on the stage - with many saying their inclusion brings an end to"two-party politics".

The deficit, healthcare, immigration and help for younger generations were on the table...

Liberal Democrat leader Nick Clegg attacked Conservative leader David Cameron over his plans not to raise taxes for the richest...

CLEGG

But Mr Cameron defended his party's economic plan - and criticised Ed Miliband for Labour's record...

CAMERON

Taxes and the deficit were big topics - experts say it's no surprise the economy came up first...

Professor Tony Travers, is from the London School of Economics...

TRAVERS

Britain's National Health Service was also a big topic - Ed Miliband attacked the current PM over the Conservative record...

MILIBAND

Current polls suggest it's unlikely one party will be able to win outright on May the 7th - which means a hung parliament.

All leaders are aware that come the morning after the election - there may well be another coalition on the cards...

Securing every vote is crucial for parties wanting a chance to team up to get their shot at power.

Parties will now get back on the campaign trail and with just 5 weeks to go until vote day, there's still plenty of time for opinions to change.

Dan Whitehead, SOC, London.

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ENDS