switching to tier 2 general

[querya]

Hi,
I would like to ask a question regarding switch to tier 2 general, but before that I will explain my current status
I have entered UK on Tier 2 ICT established staff visa(valid till May 2011) in May 2010 and then extended the visa for 1 year (valid from May 2011 to April 2012) as tier-2 ICT Established staff. Last April, I extended the visa again for 1 year (valid from 15th April 2012 to 15th April 2013) and the visa is mentioned as Tier-2 ICT Long term in my BRP.

Now I have two questions,
1. Can I switch from tier-2 ICT to tier-2 General within UK now?
2. Can I apply for tier-2 general, from outside UK ?

Thanks for your time in reading this case. An early response will be highly appreciated.

[manci]

1. yes, you can, if you change sponsor
2. yes, you can, but the 12 months cooling-off period will apply