There are now leafleting zones across the UK, in which you must buy a licence and get permission from the local council before you can leaflet. These rules have been catastrophic for local organisations such as theatres, village halls, comedy clubs and nightclubs.

Oxford City Council is planning one of these leafleting zones for Oxford. This will mean that student societies cannot hand out leaflets about plays, concerts or other events, unless they buy a council licence.

We believe that leafleting is a key civic freedom, and that it should not be restricted without very good reason. We also argue that litter can be better dealt with through provision of litter bins and other common-sense measures, rather than restrictions on peoples rights to use public space.

(NB: The councils plans are outlined here [http://consultation.oxford.gov.uk/consult.ti/freeprintedmatter/consultationHome] and are due to pass at a meeting in April. It is urgent that we get this petition out to Oxford residents so do pass on to your friends and contacts.)