Charles Kennedy had every opportunity to debate the disastrous state of our public services at their failed conference last week

Conservative spokesman

In a letter to the Tory leader, Mr Kennedy said the public had a "right to see the different policies of the two main opposition parties openly debated and discussed".

At his party's annual conference in Brighton last week, Mr Kennedy said the Lib Dems were ready to take over from the "redundant and irrelevant" Tories as the official opposition.

The Tories plan to make public services the centrepiece of their annual conference in Bournemouth next week.

Kennedy's call

In his letter to Mr Duncan Smith, Mr Kennedy writes: "I noticed in the weekend press that you have said you are keen to debate with me the future funding and structure of public services in our country.

"I would be delighted to take part in such a debate with you at the earliest available opportunity after your party conference next week.

"Reform of the public services is of enormous importance for the future of our country and I believe that the public has a right to see the different policies of the two main opposition parties openly debated and discussed.

"Could you confirm that you stand by your statement that you wish to take part in such a debate?"

Tory response

But Mr Kennedy's challenge was dismissed by Tory central office.

A spokesman said: "Charles Kennedy had every opportunity to debate the disastrous state of our public services at their failed conference last week.

"We will be debating and highlighting the plight of public services at our conference next week.

Charles Kennedy should listen carefully."