The Conservative Party of Canada will hold the third and final debate of its leadership race on Wednesday, August 3 at 6pm ET.
The party informed members of the date in an email Thursday night, after candidate Pierre Poilievre said he would not attend and rival candidate Leslyn Lewis expressed reservations.
Poilievre’s campaign said it is focused on getting supporters to send in their ballots before the September deadline, while Lewis says he has a full schedule of meetings with members.
Poilievre’s team also said the party hoped to make up for the race’s first English-language debate in May, which the campaign described as an “embarrassment.”
Under party rules, candidates must attend official party debates or face a $50,000 fine.
A party spokesman says the debate format remains under discussion.
“With less than two months until our next leader is announced, this event will provide a key opportunity for members to decide who they believe is best suited to lead our party at the next election,” the email sent said . to Conservative members on Thursday.
The campaigns say they hope the event will be held in Ottawa.