Tory leadership debate cancelled because Boris Johnson refuses to take part
The televised Tory leadership debate has been cancelled because Boris Johnson refuses to take part, Sky News has announced.
In a development that could represent a fresh blow to the frontrunner's hopes of becoming prime minister, the TV station said he had "so far declined the invitation" to go head to head with rival Jeremy Hunt - who has accused his opponent of "bottling it".
A spokesman said: "Sky News has been planning to hold a debate tomorrow between the two remaining candidates in the Conservative leadership election.
"Jeremy Hunt has agreed to take part but Boris Johnson has so far declined the invitation.
"We stand ready to host a debate tomorrow evening if both candidates make themselves available.
"Without both candidates, tomorrow's debate will not take place.
"But we will reissue our invitation for Mr Hunt and Mr Johnson to debate live on Sky News next Monday, July 1."
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