Electoral Systems & Referenda

General Election

An election where the Prime Minister can call for a vote to elect Members of Parliament, typically occurring every five years, but can be called earlier under certain circumstances.

By-election

An election held to fill a vacancy for a Member of Parliament when the previous representative resigns or dies, often reflecting public opinion towards the government.

Local elections

Elections held every four years for local representatives, characterized by lower voter turnout compared to general elections.

Scottish Parliament elections

Elections using a different voting system where voters have two votes, one for a candidate and one for a party, resulting in 129 Members of the Scottish Parliament (MSPs).

Welsh Assembly

An assembly that uses a similar electoral system to the Scottish Parliament, consisting of 40 ordinary Members of the Welsh Assembly (MWAs) and 20 regional MWAs.

Northern Irish Assembly

An assembly that employs a proportional representation system known as Single Transferable Vote (STV).

First Past the Post System (FPTP)

A plurality electoral system where the candidate with the most votes in a constituency wins, often criticized for its lack of proportionality.

Advantages of FPTP

Simplicity, clear results, strong link between MPs and constituents, and typically avoids coalition governments.

Disadvantages of FPTP

Can result in unfair outcomes, wasted votes, and favors larger parties, leading to a lack of representation for smaller parties.

Proportional Systems

Electoral systems based on multi-member constituencies that aim to achieve a more proportional representation of votes.

List system

A proportional representation system where voters choose a party, and candidates are elected from a party's list based on the number of votes received.

Single Transferable Vote (STV)

A voting system allowing voters to rank candidates in order of preference, used in Northern Ireland and Scottish Council elections.

Advantages of STV

Reduces wasted votes, eliminates safe seats, and ensures representation of majority votes.

Disadvantages of STV

May weaken the link between MPs and constituents and can lead to unstable coalition governments.

Alternative Vote

A proposed voting system allowing voters to rank candidates, ensuring that the winner receives over 50% of the votes.

Advantages of Alternative Vote

Maintains the link between MPs and constituents, ensures majority support, and reduces wasted votes.

Disadvantages of Alternative Vote

Can lead to strategic voting and may favor centrist parties.

Referendums

Direct votes in which the electorate decides on specific issues, often related to constitutional matters.

Advantages of referendums

Promote direct democracy, encourage political participation, and provide clear public consent on controversial issues.

Disadvantages of referendums

Can undermine representative democracy, may be influenced by media and funding, and complex issues may not be suitable for simple yes/no questions.