Q1: Evaluate the view that the various electoral systems used in the UK make little difference to the political system (SPEC)

3 points

1. representation

2. government type

3. voter choice

representation

• Weaker: Makes little difference – FPTP and AMS both give large seat shares to major parties.
    🧾 2024: Labour won 64% of seats with just 33% of votes under FPTP (House of Commons)

• Stronger: Makes a difference – STV better reflects voter intention than FPTP.
    🧾 2020: Irish General Election using STV had a Gallagher Index of 2.2 (vs UK’s 23.8 in 2024)

government type

• Weaker: Little difference – Majoritarian systems dominate even mixed/hybrid systems.
    🧾 2024: SNP dominance in Scotland persists under AMS – SNP held 63/129 seats in Holyrood

• Stronger: Significant difference – STV promotes power-sharing to avoid dominance.
    🧾 2023: Northern Ireland Executive formed with DUP and Sinn Féin under STV to reflect votes proportionally

voter choice

• Weaker: Tactical voting still occurs across systems
    🧾 2024: Tactical voting in FPTP constituencies like Kensington & Bayswater, where Labour won with 40%

• Stronger: Greater choice in AMS and STV
    🧾 2021: Scottish Parliament saw Greens gain 8 seats due to 2nd regional list vote under AMS

conclusion

DISAGREE: While some systems replicate dominant-party outcomes, proportional and hybrid systems improve representation and voter voice, proving electoral systems do affect UK politics.