Barnett accused of being scared of debate

WA Labor leader Mark McGowan wants three debates before the March state election, and is even willing to do six, but Premier Colin Barnett will only participate in one.

Mr Barnett told reporters on Friday that there would be one debate about midway through the caretaker period, but Mr McGowan said more were needed to "properly explore all the issues" facing the state, and accused Mr Barnett of being scared.

"He would have to explain the debt, deficit, unemployment, broken promises, huge tax increases (and) huge cost of living increases in any debates," Mr McGowan told reporters.

"I think Mr Barnett is showing he's a bit fearful of more than one debate."

The opposition leader said he would also like to be part of a debate in the regions, such as Bunbury.