Petitions: an important part of democracy in Kent

12 October 2010

Earlier this year, in response to new legislation, members of Kent County Council agreed to a change in the way it receives petitions from the county’s residents.

This is an important way of giving people a chance to have their say and play a part in local democracy.

Residents in Kent can submit traditional paper petitions or use the council’s website to create and submit petitions online – called e-petitions.

For the first time on Thursday (14 October), four petitions will be presented to the county council by members of the public, followed by a debate that all elected Members will take part in.

In each case, the person presenting the petition has the chance to address the council for up to five minutes – and submit a written statement. The local member involved can also speak. After that, the Chairman of the County Council opens up a 45 minute debate, in which every elected Member has the opportunity to take part. The Council will then agree a way forward for every petition it debates.

Allowing everyone in Kent to have an influence on the subjects discussed by elected Members is an important part of keeping openness and transparency at the heart of local democracy.

Alex King, deputy leader of Kent County Council, said: “This gives the people of Kent an opportunity to bring their views to the council for an open and honest debate.

“While the subjects might not always be easy ones to discuss, having this mechanism in place is both welcome and important.”