What do you think, mere window dressing or meaningful input? Here’s how it works. A petitioner drafts a 250 word plea for action or change and provides names and contact information for 5 – 10 supporters. They find an MP to ‘sponsor’ the petition and when signatures are verified the petition goes up on the site for 120 days. If it gains 500 or more supporters it is certified and presented to the House. The government has 45 days to respond, which could be a polite dismissal or it could result in a formal motion or private member’s bill.
Source: Home – E-petitions