It could prove to be a major fumble on the campaign trial for a local conservative.

London-West MP Ed Holder is dealing with some harsh criticism for refusing to participate in an all-candidates debate on healthcare.

The London Health Coalition is hosting the event at the Best Wester Lamplighter Inn April 20th.

Holder's communications director sent the coalition a letter that said they were "puzzled" as to why federal candidates would be asked to debate health care.

"I'd think this is more an issue for Deb Matthews and the provincial candidates," said the campaign letter. "We're not attracted to see Ed debate on healthcare".

London-West Liberal candidate, Doug Ferguson, tells Newstalk 1290 he couldn't disagree more.

He says it was the federal government that created medicare and continues to give tens of billions of dollars to the provinces for healthcare.

Ferguson says after knocking on 13 thousand doors campaigning healthcare and the economy are the two main issues voters are voicing concerns about.

Both Doug Ferguson and NDP candidate Peter Ferguson have signed on for the debate.

A call to Ed Holder has yet to be returned.