Politicians don't want to go up against Canadiens

MONTREAL (AP) - File this under "Only in Canada."

A move is afoot to reschedule a federal election debate slated for Thursday so it doesn't conflict with the opening game of the Montreal Canadiens' first-round playoff series against the Boston Bruins.

Bloc Quebecois leader Gilles Duceppe says he's sure Montreal fans will choose the game over the French-language debate, and NDP Leader Jack Layton echoed those sentiments.

Duceppe is asking other party leaders to join in urging the broadcasters who organize the debate to move it back a day.

An English debate is scheduled for Tuesday, before the playoffs begin.

A spokesman for Prime Minister Stephen Harper said the Tory leader will be there on whatever date they choose.