B.C. premier, opposition leader to face off in electoral reform debate

The ballots have gone out and now, the debate is set.

On Nov. 8, Premier JohnHorganand Opposition Leader Andrew Wilkinson are taking part in a joint debate on B.C.'s electoral reform referendum.

The referendum asks British Columbians if they want to change thesystem by which they elect leaders in the province whetherto move to a form of proportional representation or keep the current first-past-the-post method.

Explaining the 3 types of electoral reform on B.C.'s ballot

6 years ago

Duration 2:51

This fall, B.C. will choose whether to keep its current first-past-the-post electoral system or change to a proportional representation model. Here's what you need to know.

Wilkinson challenged Horgan to a debate on Sept. 24, saying it was Horgan's job to defend the referendum because his government put it forward.

The premier, who has said he is in favour of proportional representation, said he was open to a debate as soon as a date was set.

Wilkinson released a statement about the debate after it was announced Tuesday, saying the referendum has been "flawed from the start."

"The premier must explain to B.C. why he's trying to changeour democracy to hold on to power and, on Nov.8, I will be doing everything I can to make sure he does that," the statement said.

When and how to watch

A specialbroadcast will air onCBCBritish Columbia from 6:30 to 8:00p.m. PT on Nov. 8.

Viewers can tune in onCBC Television,CBC Radio One,CBC British Columbia's website, CBC Vancouver's Facebook page, and @CBCNewsBC Periscope.

The debatewill be moderated byCBCVancouver'sStephen Quinnand Global's Lynda Steele.