Petitions? I signed one once. Still took 30 years to release Nelson Mandela.
Well yes, petitions are popular, but may not always be thought of as effective. That is why government is interested in formalising their function in local government. It's so they become meaningful.
Like those Swiss and their referendums?
Sort of, but that's not on the agenda. What's being suggested is simply a "duty to respond constructively". It's seen as boosting democracy by telling people that their concerns will be listened to.
What would constitute a formal petition then?
It must relate to a local authority function, be organised by a local person and show a certain level of support from the populace. While government is concerned that it must not be over-technical, it should be in a certain format, contain a clear proposition and detail the organisers and the precise area it relates to.
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