THE SNP has demanded a spot in the BBC’s European Union debates, but could be squeezed out of a crunch showdown between David Cameron and Boris Johnson.
The special edition of Question Time will feature just one senior figure from each side, raising the prospect of a head-to-head between the Prime Minister and the most high-profile campaigner for the Out camp.
The programme could be crucial as it will air on June 15 as hundreds of thousand of voters are expected to cast their postal ballots.
SNP leader Nicola Sturgeon has been deeply critical of the way Mr Cameron has made the case to stay in the EU.
Next week she will even try to woo voters English voters herself in a speech in London.
The BBC has announced two other EU debates, including one in Glasgow aimed at younger voters and a live event from the 12,500-capacity Wembley Arena.
No names have been mentioned, but an SNP source said: "We'd like to be involved."
The Prime Minister is the most senior political figure in the campaign to keep Britain in the EU while, arguably, Mr Johnson is the most senior in the Leave camp.
However, Mr Cameron has been wary about appearing in televised debates in the past, and famously refused a showdown with Alex Salmond during the independence referendum.
While Mr Johnson has ruled out debating Tory colleagues, as the Out campaign's most popular media performer he could face pressure from supporters to be involved.
The BBC events will kick off in Glasgow on May 19, with a debate hosted by presenter Victoria Derbyshire.
The final debate, meanwhile, will come just 48 hours before polling day on June 21, live from Wembley Arena.
There, thousands of voters will get the chance to quiz representatives from the Remain and Leave campaigns.
Asked if Mr Cameron would be willing to take part in televised debates, his spokeswoman said no decision had yet been taken.
Mr Salmond has also challenged Mr Johnson to a head-to-head.
Ukip leader Nigel Farage has said that he will consider debating Mr Salmond if Ms Sturgeon turns him down. He had earlier said he was "very keen" to debate the First Minister.
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