WELWYN Hatfield Liberal Democrat candidate Paul Zukowskyj has called last night’s first debate between the three main party leaders as “possibly a pivotal moment” in the General Election.

PM Gordon Brown, Tory party leader David Cameron and Lib Dem chief Nick Clegg made history last night (Thursday), taking to the stage in the country’s first ever prime ministerial debate.

And opinion polls suggested Clegg was the leader who most impressed, as the trio discussed topics including immigration, education and MPs’ expenses.

Mr Zukowskyj told the WHT this morning: “When the polls came out I was absolutely delighted. Both ITN and YouGov showed Nick way, way out in front.

“The reaction to the policies Nick was talking about was fantastic. It’s possibly a pivotal moment.”

Mr Zukowskyj said he had no fear Mr Clegg would not perform well on stage – having supported him in his bid to become party leader, back in 2007.

“When the Liberal Democrats elected Nick to represent them, it was a really hard-fought choice between him and Chris Huhne.

“For me, the reason I chose him was because he was a fantastic communicator, and I think the differential between them.

“Nick had the edge on Huhne and that was borne out yesterday.”

Mr Zukowskyj added: “I don’t think anyone could have done a better job.”