The race for No. 11: the warm-up

The UK's first live television debate between party chancellors-in-waiting took place this evening. And all this before the election has even been called.

So who won the hustings?

Feedback suggests this wasn't the most entertaining way to unwind in front of the box, but by Newsnight's reckoning Vince Cable won the audience but George Osborne's lack of gaffes may convince floating voters that his lack of experience is not a weakness. Who really knows?

Perhaps the best prediction is that the editing of such debates is crucial, as the best soundbites will make news bulletins that more viewers will watch. Whether or not even these clips will make a difference only times will tell.

Maybe television debates highlight gaffes and little else? Witness the lack of enthusiastic blogging and limp Youtube action...