Public petitions allow individuals and groups to participate directly in the democratic process by raising issues of public concern with Parliament. The petitions committee decides what action should be taken on admissible petitions and whether disputes over admissibility are allowed. Some petitions are very successful in gaining signatures, like one in 2006 to oppose assisted suicide legislation which was signed by over 1,000 people, while others may only be signed by the petitioner. Public petitions are a good way for people to have their voices heard by the parliament directly.

1. Public Petitions

4. The 4rd 1 There are some very successful petitions such as Petition by Professor Donald Macdonald Petition by Professor Donald M Macdonald calling for Members of the Scottish Parliament to oppose the introduction of any legislation which would permit assisted suicide. Number of signatures: 1 Date lodged: 15 December 2006 As u can see not all petitions make it Clearly he signed it him self

5. The 5nd 1 Some petitions are very successful Petition by Rev James Watson Petition by Rev Jim Watson calling for the Scottish Parliament to urge the Scottish Executive to fulfil its commitment in the Partnership Agreement to “develop the important role of community hospitals, and develop a strategy for sustaining small, rural and community hospitals” especially in areas such as the Scottish Borders. Number of signatures: 2558 Date lodged: 12 June 2006