US President George W Bush insists that he has always tried to listen to the voice of the people, citing his controversial wiretap programme as evidence.

In his weekly radio address Bush assured US citizens that while their domestic concerns may fall on deaf ears, the president is "always listening".

"Contrary to popular belief, I fully realise that this nation has a voice and I listen to it on a daily basis", said Mr Bush. "From their sex lives to their bank details, people are sharing their concerns with me right across the country. I am only too willing to listen".

The president says he likes to eavesdrop on the nation "at least three times a day" just to keep in touch with public opinion.

"I know we're only meant to be wiretapping Muslims and all, but sometimes I just can't help finding out what's on the mind of the average Joe. Just this morning, in fact, a young man from Indiana told me and his friend that he was going to vote Democrat. What advice do you give to someone like that?"

President Bush said he pays particular attention to the voice of anti-war activists, bloggers and 9/11 conspiracy theorists. "I've always got time for those folks. Without them, half of our secret prisons would be empty".