Charles Hendry discussed the issue of so-called 'suicide websites' in a debate with Justice Secretary Jack Straw in the Commons last week, in the wake of a number of recent suicides among young people in south Wales.

Mr Hendry had previously raised the issue with Mr Straw after the death of a young man in the Hailsham area, who it appeared had been influenced in taking his own life by similar sites.

He asked what steps the government would take to outlaw websites that promote suicide and when action would be taken.

Mr Straw said, "We are actively looking at what we can do to control those websites.

"There are inherent difficulties because many of them are based overseas, but we want to take action as quickly as we can.

"The Law Commission, which has also been looking into the issue, has made recommendations that the government is considering."

Mr Hendry said, "I am encouraged by the indications from the government that it is now preparing to take concrete action on these terrible websites and I am writing to the Lord Chancellor and also to the Law Commission for greater clarification on what is being proposed.

"There should be no place in our society for these awful websites, which actively encourage people to take their own lives.

"I understand the complications in trying to ban websites but I am hopeful that by involving all the relevant groups and organisations we can find a way forward which will close them down and help to prevent future tragedies."

Suicide prevention charity Papyrus said it has campaigned for a revision of the law surrounding Internet 'suicide sites' for more than three years.

Charity trustee Paul Kelly added, "In this time the government has consistently claimed the law is 'adequate' despite a number of high-profile cases which have failed to come to court.

"We welcome any new initiative by the government but Mr Straw's reference to the Law Commission's report of 2006 unfortunately will not take the issue forward in any significant way. What is needed is a fresh look at the Suicide Act of 1961 to take into account the way people communicate in the 21st century."

Papyrus offers a telephone helpline that provides support to anyone concerned a young person they know may be at risk of suicide.

Call 0870 170 4000 or visit www.papyrus-uk.org for more information.