General election candidates for the Falmouth and Truro constituency will be put under the spotlight this afternoon when they come together for a public debate.

Falmouth and Exeter Students’ Union (FXU) has organised the event which will take place at the Penryn Campus. Those expected to attend are: current Conservative MP

Sarah Newton; Liberal Democrat, Simon Rix; Labour’s Hanna Toms; Stephen Richardson, of Mebyon Kernow and Independent Loic Rich.

Falmouth University student, Alex Falconer is behind the debate, which is part of a long-term FXU campaign to give staff, students and local residents the chance to “grill’” all those who hope to become MP for the constituency following the next year’s general election.

Following on from this event, FXU plans to hold another debate in the autumn term with the fresh cohort of students.

Those living in university accommodation at the Penryn Campus fall under the Camborne and Redruth constituency area, and candidates from further afield will be invited to attend.

Oli Maskrey, FXU’s vice-president participation, said: “We were really pleased when Alex approached us with the idea of inviting the MP candidates to the Penryn Campus for a debate, and this is a perfect way to kick-start a much bigger campaign to increase political awareness among the student body ahead of the general election.

“Hopefully we can have some healthy debate around issues that affect students by giving students and staff members the chance to question the candidates.”

The debate will be held in the Chapel Lecture Theatre at the Penryn Campus between 4pm and 6pm, seating is limited.

To register your interest, email Stacey.Bray@fxu.org.uk. If you’re not able to attend but would still like to be involved, follow #MPGrill on Twitter and email your questions for the candidates to vpparticipation@fxu.org.uk.