Electoral Systems Flashcards
(12 cards)
How do PR systems affect smaller party representation?
PR gives smaller parties better representation than FPTP.
Example: In 2019, the Green Party won 12.1% of the vote and got 7 MEPs in the EU election (PR), but only 1 MP in the UK General Election (FPTP).
How does FPTP distort party representation in general elections?
It over-rewards parties with concentrated support.
Example: In 2019, Lib Dems got 11.5% of the vote but only 11 seats; SNP got 3.9% of the vote but 48 seats.
How do regional PR elections create more pluralist representation?
They allow smaller parties to gain seats alongside dominant ones.
Example: In the 2011 NI Assembly election (STV), Sinn Féin and DUP dominated, but UUP, SDLP, and Alliance also won seats.
Does the two-party system still dominate under other systems?
Yes, voter behaviour often favours big parties.
Example: In the London Assembly (AMS), Labour and Conservatives remain dominant.
Does PR always give smaller parties power?
No, they may gain seats but not influence.
Example: Scottish Greens have seats in Holyrood but have never led a government.
Can dominant parties still control PR-based systems?
Yes, PR doesn’t always break party dominance.
Example: Sinn Féin and the DUP continue to dominate under STV in Northern Ireland.
How does PR improve representation compared to FPTP?
PR ensures fairer outcomes for smaller parties.
Example: In 2016, the Scottish Greens won 6.6% of the vote and got 6 seats (AMS), but only 1 MP from 2.7% under FPTP.
How does PR impact voter engagement?
It reduces wasted votes and encourages participation.
Example: AMS lets voters cast two votes; FPTP wastes millions in safe seats like Liverpool Walton (78% Labour in 2019).
What does PR do to regional imbalances in representation?
It ends overrepresentation of major parties.
Example: In 2019, Conservatives got 56.2% of seats with 43.6% of the vote; Greens only 1 seat despite 2.7% of the vote.
Why do supporters argue FPTP should remain?
It provides strong, stable governments.
Example: 2019 General Election gave the Conservatives a clear majority; PR systems like NI’s STV have led to deadlock (e.g., 2017–2020 Stormont collapse).
Does PR always lead to diverse party power?
Not always—dominant parties can still control.
Example: In NI, STV still sees power concentrated between Sinn Féin and the DUP.
Has the UK public supported electoral reform?
No—past attempts have failed.
Example: 2011 AV referendum saw 68% vote against change.
