Minor Parties Dont Matter Flashcards
(1 cards)
FPTP electoral system yes MP don’t matter
FPTP greatly reduces the power and relevance of smaller parties and benefits L and CP, one of whom has either been in power alone, or as the majority party in a coalition since the end of WW2.
UKIP and reform amassed over 5 million votes, but got 2 seats
Similarly, in 2024 GE, reform won 14.3% votes but 5 seats, symbolising the harsh and bleak regality of FPTP
Not only does the FPTP lead to a 2 party system, despite sig support for minor parties, it gives winners a ‘Winnie’s bonus’, where their seat share significantly outstrips voteshare e,g, labour 2024 GE won 33.7% votes, but 63.2% seats
Sig as the prospect of smaller parties other than L or CP to succeed in terms of seats in order to play a meaningful role in Parliament becomes more elusive
