TWO of the region's Conservative MPs have joined the Internet age with a bang - they have launched their own independent online television channels.

Richard Spring, MP for West Suffolk, and Bury St Edmunds MP David Ruffley have joined the Youtube craze, which allows people to make broadcasts which then can be watched on computers and laptops.

Bury St Edmunds MP David Ruffley has podcasts to download on his website, which has been completely re-vamped to attract the growing army of Internet users.

'Some MPs have blogs, a few others have podcasts but in each instance these are spread around over a number of websites and are not immediately accessible to the average visitor. I am offering all the usual content alongside a daily blog, audio podcasts and videos on a single parliamentary website.'

Mr Ruffley started podcasting last month on environmental issues, trade in Bury St Edmunds and the future of the accident and emergency department at the West Suffolk Hospital.

'This is all about accessibility and accountability - there is massive scope for feedback and people are able to download my comments on topical issues and listen to them on the bus or train via their iPods.

Richard Spring TV's first programme is on the contentious subject of middle schools and the plans of Suffolk county council to abolish them and replace them with primary and secondary schools.

Mr Spring said: 'Keeping my constituents informed about my views, activities and campaigning is absolutely cru-cial to my work as the local Member of Parliament. I am keen to use all the different types of technology available to reach the widest possible audience.

'For example, on an issue such as the proposals to reform the school system in Suffolk, making a short video about my position on the issue is a quick and easy way for my constituents to know what their MP is thinking and what is he planning to do about it.

'I want to encourage constituents to visit the site and to leave their comments. Visitors can also receive free up-dates, if they choose to, when a new video has been posted.'

Mr Spring says the broadcast web site will complement his website www.richardspringmp.com and will

give people living in West Suffolk an additional opportunity to find out about their local MP and his activities.