EXAMINER website users quizzed Labour’s Debbie Abrahams in a pioneering liveblog.

The Colne Valley candidate took questions directly from voters in an hour-long session covered live on the Examiner’s website yesterday lunchtime.

Mrs Abrahams, who is fighting to keep the highly-marginal seat for Labour, was quizzed about immigration, health funding and ID cards.

She revealed that she doesn’t support ID cards, despite the scheme being Labour party policy.

On immigration, Mrs Abrahams said: “Labour has a strong policy on immigration – tough but fair. We introduced a points-based system for people who want to come into the UK from outside Europe.

“For example, if we have a particular skills need that can't be filled by local people then that will score highly.”

On health, the Labour woman said she wanted funding to be ring-fenced.

Website user SteveB asked if Mrs Abrahams would be prepared to vote against her party bosses if elected.

She replied: “I made it clear in my interview with the National Executive Committee that there may be circumstances when, as a matter of conscience, I may not vote with my party.”

Several questioners wanted to know if Mrs Abrahams had strong connections with the constituency.

She said: “I live in Longwood with my husband John. I used to live in Newhey – six miles away.

“I do think it is important to live in the constituency you wish to represent to be part of that community and that’s why I moved!”

Colne Valley Lib Dem candidate Clr Nicola Turner will take part in a similar liveblog from 12.30pm to 1.30pm on Wednesday.

And Conservative candidate Jason McCartney will answer your questions from 12.30pm to 1.30pm on Friday.

If you have questions for either candidate, please email digital@examiner.co.uk

For more see www.examiner.co.uk/election