The leaders of the six parties vying to gain votes in the September 16 election will have their chance tomorrow night to see how they match up against each other in a televised debate as the poll race enters the final straight.

It was agreed yesterday that state broadcaster ERT will host the debate, which will be moderated by one journalist while another six, including Kathimerini's Alexis Papachelas, will ask questions based on predetermined topics, such as foreign policy, the economy, social policy and education.

New Democracy and PASOK had disagreed over whether Stelios Papathemelis, the leader of Democratic Revival which is unlikely to gain seats in Parliament, should be included in the debate.

ND hopes that Papathemelis will be able to draw votes from the Popular Orthodox Rally (LAOS), led by Giorgos Karadzaferis, and prevent it from gaining seats at the expense of the ruling conservatives.

ND sources said they are hoping the debate will be an opportunity for Prime Minister Costas Karamanlis to appear more statesmanlike than his opponents.

PASOK insiders said they hope that George Papandreou will be able to display his leadership qualities and show that he is in touch with the issues.

The Socialists cranked up their election drive yesterday by bringing out heavyweight Costas Laliotis who has been Papandreou's informal campaign manager.

Laliotis presented some of the TV spots PASOK will run over the next few days and is due to make regular evening appearances to compete with government spokesman Theodoros Roussopoulos.