The third round of the UK’s first ever prime ministerial TV debates was hosted by the BBC in Birmingham last night and the gloves certainly came off off for the final round. So who inched closer to Downing Street and who surrendered to defeat?  The Core verdict is in…

In first place:  David Cameron.

David Cameron appeared concise and convincing in the final debate, keen to explain his policies and adept at deflecting attacks from the opposition.   His refusal to answer Nick Clegg’s persistent questioning of his inheritance tax cut plan was a weak point, but his clear stance on immigration will have won over many voters.  An amusing reference to Fred ‘the shred’ Goodwin being knighted by the Labour party destroyed Brown’s claims of both economic competence and sound judgement.

In second place: Nick Clegg.

Nick Clegg continued to engage positively with the audience, winning over questioners with his passionate and empathic responses.   As the debate developed, he became frustrated and annoyed that his policies were being misconstrued by the opposition and fell back on repetitively referring to the country’s problems being caused by the ‘old parties’.  Clegg’s closing statement was confident and optimistic clearly showing the impact these televised debates have had on his party’s fortunes.

Bringing up the rear: Gordon Brown.

Described during the debate by Cameron as ‘someone who’s in a desperate state’, Brown appeared dour and dogmatic, undoubtedly feeling bruised by the week’s horrendous PR gaff.  Brown continued to stress the oppositions’ inexperience in handling the current economic crisis and attacked Cameron over his tax breaks for the rich.  A defensive closing statement again attempted to slur the opposition rather than sell the virtues of the Labour party, with Brown’s false parting smile suggesting perhaps he has already conceded defeat.

The prime ministerial debates have done the unimaginable, virtually nullifying the efforts of the multi-million pound campaign trails with three fairly basic TV shows.  The BBC proudly called last night’s debate The Final and, despite almost a full week of campaigning remaining, in the minds of many voters, the race is already over.

So who do you think will be our next Prime Minister? Post your thoughts below…