DEPUTY Prime Minister Nick Clegg is opening himself up to a no-holds barred question and answer session to Oxford Mail readers.

Mr Clegg, pictured, is visiting the city two days before the May 22 council and European parliament elections and has agreed to meet voters and answer any questions put to him.

There will be no (reasonable) topic off limits and the invitation to the meeting is open to anyone of any political persuasion.

Mr Clegg encouraged Oxford Mail readers to sign up for the event, which will be held at a city centre location on the afternoon of Tuesday, May 20.

He said: “Ever since I have been leader of the Liberal Democrats I have held meetings where members of the public can come along and ask me a question directly.

“It is something I have continued as Deputy Prime Minister and believe as many people as possible should be given the chance to put their elected politicians on the spot.

“The event is two days before we go to the polls in the local and European elections and the Liberal Democrats aren’t scared to speak up.

“We are Britain’s party of ‘in’, standing up for staying in Europe loudly, passionately and unequivocally, because that is how we keep this nation stronger, safer and richer.

“It’s great the Oxford Mail has agreed to host the event and I would encourage readers to register and come along to ask me a question.”

Audience members will have to apply for places by registering through the web address at the bottom of this story.

It is free to attend. Places will be limited and the closing date for applications will be 6pm on Sunday, May 18.

Audience members will be informed on Monday, May 19, of the location once they have been accepted. You will need to bring photo identification to get in.

Because of security arrangements, applicants will be vetted by the police.

However, that is the only check that will be made and the audience will not be selected along political lines. If you have a question for the Deputy Prime Minister, we want you to have the chance to ask it.

Oxford Mail editor Simon O’Neill said: “This is a rare chance for our readers to put the questions that matter to them directly to the Deputy Prime Minister and we are proud to be involved.

“This will not be some Liberal Democrat election rally. It is for real people to ask real questions and get real answers.

“Many people may not agree with Liberal Democrat policies, but it is still impressive Mr Clegg is prepared to open himself up to this type of forum. Our city is known for its intellectual debate and it will be intriguing to see how the meeting develops.”

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