Debate reaction – 8 in the morning, April 16th

Alex Smith

8am

By Alex Smith / @alexsmith1982

* Nick Clegg stole the first debate by offering himself up as a fresh alternative in an “electrifying, fast-moving” broadcast, says the Guardian.

* The Times says this was a “gladatorial battle for the modern age”.

* Clegg wins on style, Brown on substance, Cameron on shallowness, says Alastair Campbell.

* No knock-out blow or disastrous gaffe, but Clegg wins through, says the Independent.

* The Telegraph goes over what was said in the debate, issue by issue.

* Guardian columnists give their views on the TV debate.

* Mike Smithson says that although last night may have hurt the Tories, it could also hurt Labour.

* Nothing fundamental changed last night in the frame of the election as a whole, writes James Crabtree.

* Why has David Cameron ditched his “Broken Britain” mantra?

John Prescott and John Denham give their reaction:

More from LabourList

DONATE HERE

We provide our content free, but providing daily Labour news, comment and analysis costs money. Small monthly donations from readers like you keep us going. To those already donating: thank you.

If you can afford it, can you join our supporters giving £10 a month?

And if you’re not already reading the best daily round-up of Labour news, analysis and comment…

SUBSCRIBE TO OUR DAILY EMAIL