TWO prominent Swindon political figures were given a bright idea from a student as incentives for voting - by offering people cash or money off their council tax bill.

This was one of ideas that came up in the discussion between MP for South Swindon Anne Snelgrove, Swindon Labour leader Coun Kevin Small and politics students at New College on Friday.

A lecture was given by the two on local and national politics, followed by a question and answer session.

Mrs Snelgrove spoke of the leadership contest to replace prime minister Tony Blair and his deputy John Prescott, the NHS and also on the Mental Health Bill as part of proposed new legislation.

Mr Small related his lecture specifically to the Swindon arena. He raised issues such as electronic voting technology, via the internet, which will be in place at next week's local elections.

He also spoke on the proposed Conservative plans for fortnightly re-cycling collections by the council.

He said: "It is important we use all technology available so we can try to increase turnout at the polls. If it increases voting by five to ten per cent then it will be worthwhile doing. We are part of five other locations to be trailing the pilot scheme, so eyes will be very much on us next Thursday.

"However I will be using the more traditional method at the polling booth on election day. As for re-cycling we don't think it's a very good idea to have collections every two weeks.

"We are having hotter summers now and rubbish will start to smell. It could increase the chances of attracting rats."

Mrs Snelgrove answered a question on how MPs and councillors have so much power when little numbers turnout to vote.

She said: "It is important people exercise their democratic right and vote during election time. People have a responsibility to get involved in voting and we must take that on and use our responsibility to make a difference."

She went on to say: "It is important to come to the college and inspire the young generation to vote when they reach the voting age of 18. Their vote really will count and make a difference.

"It is important to hear what young people have to say. As politicians are from a mostly older generation, we have to keep in touch with their opinions."

There was an audience of 18 people at the lecture, with a mix of AS, A-level and higher education political students.

Views about the lecture were positive. Student Sam Carter, 17, from Freshbrook, said: "It is really good to hear what our guests had to say.

"There are a lot of inequalities in society so it is important these get addressed. It is a shame I'm too young to vote next week, but I definitely will next year."

Marcus Lilley, 17, from Marlborough said: "It was great we got a chance to listen to them today. It's a rare opportunity to ask questions to leading people in Swindon and get direct responses. This accountability is important in society."

Piers Skubala, 17, from Park South, said: "It was very interesting to hear Anne and Kevin's views. It certainly helps us to have open discussions about politics. It was really useful.

"I'm sure all of us went away feeling really informed."

Voting in the borough and parish council elections will start at 7am on Thursday and close at 10pm. Internet, telelephone and postal voting is already underway.

For more information visit http://www.myelection.co.uk/swindon on how to vote.