Leading politicians will go head-to-head with opponents in a live debate ahead of the general election.

Liberal Democrat MP for Sutton and Cheam, Paul Burstow, will face Conservative candidate Philippa Stroud and Labour candidate Kathy Allen in the live debate at Sutton Grammar School.

Student Charlie Edwards, 17, from Banstead, organised the Question Time-style event, which will be shown on the Sutton Guardian website.

We want our readers to submit questions for the candidates ahead of the debate, which will be held on March 8, at 7pm.

An equivalent event will also be held in Carshalton and Wallington for current Lib Dem MP Tom Brake and Conservative candidate Ken Andrew on Monday, March 15.

Other candidates are yet to be confirmed.

Charlie said he organised the event as a response to the current “disgruntled attitude” among the public about the state of British politics.

He said: “The expenses scandal and the recession have left many people frustrated and needing answers.

“As students I think we are quite aware of antisocial behaviour, and there are problems with teenage pregnancy and bullying which transcend social backgrounds and what school you go to.

“There are thousands of people living in Sutton – we need an outlet and an arena to air opinions and ask questions.

“Hopefully this will work to engage far more people in democracy."

Mr Burstow said: “I’m sure people want to hear more about each parties’ plans for taxation, the health system and particularly community safety.

“Education will also be a big issue. I’m looking forward to the debate.”

Mrs Stroud said: “It will be good to have the opportunity to answer questions on how Conservative policies would have a positive outcome for Sutton’s residents and Britain as a whole.”