Clerk of Tynwald urges prospective petitioners to read guidance ahead of Tynwald Day 

Guidance outlines rules on form, tone and content – with early advice strongly recommended

The Clerk of Tynwald is encouraging anyone hoping to submit a petition at this year’s Tynwald Day ceremony to familiarise themselves with the official guidance and relevant Standing Orders.

The advice – available on the Tynwald website – sets out the rules for both Petitions for Redress and Public Petitions, covering key aspects such as format, tone, and eligibility.

Petitioners are reminded that their requests must relate to matters of public interest and fall within the remit of Tynwald.

While it is possible to present a Petition for Redress without guidance, the Clerk strongly advises early contact with the Clerk of Tynwald’s Office to ensure petitions are properly drafted and stand the best chance of being found 'in order'.

For Public Petitions – which can only be presented to Tynwald in Douglas – this step is mandatory.

The guidance also notes that petitions must be respectful in tone, avoid personal grievances or defamatory content, and clearly state what the petitioner is asking Tynwald to do.

Those seeking advice can contact the Clerk’s Office directly for confidential support.

Christian Jones spoke with the Clerk of Tynwald Jonathan King:

The link to the full guidance can be found HERE.