Referendums Flashcards
(16 cards)
What is a referendum?
A referendum is a vote in which the electorate is asked to express a view on a specific issue, usually requiring a ‘yes’ or ‘no’ answer.
What was the first UK-wide referendum?
The 1975 referendum on the UK’s membership in the European Economic Community (EEC).
Which major referendums occurred under Tony Blair’s government?
Referendums on devolved assemblies in Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland (1997–1998).
What was the outcome of the 2016 EU referendum?
52% voted to leave the European Union, and 48% voted to remain.
What are the main arguments for using referendums?
They promote direct democracy, enhance political education, settle major issues, and can strengthen legitimacy.
What are the main arguments against referendums?
They can oversimplify complex issues, be influenced by media and emotion, and undermine representative democracy.
Who decides whether a referendum is held in the UK?
The government decides, usually through a simple Act of Parliament.
What is the difference between a binding and an advisory referendum?
A binding referendum must be implemented, while an advisory referendum is not legally required to be acted upon.
What impact did the 2014 Scottish independence referendum have?
It resulted in a 55% vote to remain in the UK and reinvigorated interest in devolved powers.
Why are referendums considered to enhance legitimacy?
Because they give a direct voice to the electorate, providing a clear mandate on an issue.
What was the main issue in the 2011 AV referendum?
Whether to replace FPTP with the Alternative Vote system in general elections (the public voted ‘No’).
What was the turnout in the 2014 Scottish independence referendum?
84% – one of the highest ever in the UK.
What is the role of the Electoral Commission in referendums?
Regulates campaign spending, checks question wording, and provides impartial public information.
Why did the 2004 North East Assembly referendum fail?
79% voted against the proposal, showing regional devolution was unpopular there.
Why is the 2016 Brexit referendum considered controversial?
It had a close result and created long-term political division, with many people misunderstanding the consequences.
What is devo-max?
A term for maximum devolution – giving Scotland more powers without full independence.
