Well the talking is over and tonight's BBC debate saw all three leaders put in their most comfortable performances.

They were all strong in their answers if not spectacular but for the first time, it was a proper debate.

Disagreements over each others policies on economic recovery and immigration finally set the leaders about and David Dimbleby's chairmanship was subtle and allowed the whole thing to flow much easier than in previous weeks.

Gordon Brown started with an admission that he didn't always get things right and then went on the attack, pointing out weaknesses in both The Conservatives and the Lib Dem policies.

David Cameron was repeatedly questioned on inheritance tax but batted them away well while Nick Clegg survived a battering from the Tory leader on his "controversial" illegal immigrant amnesty.

When they did talk about their own policies, the differences between the three parties was clearer than ever and people who were undecided before tonight's debate, should have a bit more clarity now.

As for how helpful these debates have been, the real proof will be in the pudding next Thursday.

If turn out is up then maybe these televised knock abouts have helped to re-engage a weary public with politics.

If not, then maybe we have to re-think the format.

One thing I am certain of is that these debates will now become part of the fabric of General Election campaigns and that is, in my view, a major plus for future generations.

As with the last two weeks, I'll be posting a fully analysis tomorrow morning including the views of the various national newspapers.

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