Electoral systems

Question 1

Describe FPTP

Answer 1

Where the candidate with the most votes wins the constituency seat.
It’s used in UK parliament and local electons.

Question 2

Advs and Disadvs of FPTP

Answer 2

+ Speedy and simple
+ Strong link between MPs and constituency

• Favours concentrated support
• Limited voter choice

Question 3

Describe Alternative Vote (AV)

Answer 3

Candidates are ranked in order of preference. A majority is needed to win, if no-one achieves this 2nd preferences are reallocated.

Not used anywhere.

Question 4

Describe Supplementary Vote (SV)

Answer 4

Electors have a 1st and 2nd preference which requires a majority. But if no one achieves this all but the top 2 candidates are removed and votes are reallocated.

Used in mayoral and police and crime commissioner elections.

Question 5

Advs and Disadvs of SV

Answer 5

+ Ensures broad support for winner

+ Less wasted votes

Question 6

Describe Single transferable Votes (STV)

Answer 6

Electors have a choice of party and individual candidates. Each constituency returns several representatives but to be elected they need to be obtain a proportion of votes determined by seat available.

Northern Ireland

Question 7

Describe Additional Member Systems (AMS)

Answer 7

A hybrid system that used FPTP and a regional list. They allocate seats using the D’hondt method.

Is used in Scottish parliaments and Welsh assembly.