The site is an attempt to boost political debates among voters

The Guildford web forum will be used for academic research and is also an "e-government" scheme for the council.

According to the site, it is an answer to "growing disengagement" with liberal western democracy - or voter apathy.

Student Kerill Dunne said expected debates included council tax and housing. One subject on the site looks at the issue of casinos in the town.

An inquiry looking at people's involvement in politics, with the aim of increasing participation, was set up by the Rowntree Trust this year after the general election.

Turnout across the UK was up this year by more than 2% on 2001 levels - the turnout reached 61.28%, compared with 59.17% in 2001.

A survey of 1,025 non-voters by the Power Inquiry said political disaffection was the biggest factor behind low turnout.

In May, Power Inquiry chairwoman Helena Kennedy QC said: "People very clearly care about important issues - they just don't trust the politicians or the processes by which they claim their mandates.

"Above all, they don't feel that they have any real influence."

The inquiry is due to present a final report early in 2006.