Referendums Flashcards
(18 cards)
What is a referendum?
A general vote by the electorate on a single political question which has been referred to them for a direct decision.
Define devolution.
The transfer or delegation of power to a lower level, especially by a central government to local or regional administration.
What is the primary purpose of referendums?
To legitimise a particular government initiative, particularly on major constitutional changes such as devolution.
True or False: There is a constitutional requirement for a referendum to be held.
False
What might prompt a government to hold a referendum?
- To legitimise a government initiative
- To resolve internal disagreement
- As part of a political deal
- In response to public and political pressure
How do referendums serve as a check on ‘elective dictatorship’?
They involve the people directly in decision-making on important issues.
What is the role of the Electoral Commission in referendums?
To supervise the conduct of referendums to reduce the chance of skewed results due to unfair influence.
List some arguments against referendums in a representative democracy.
- Challenge to parliamentary sovereignty
- Lack of expertise among ordinary voters
- Potential for low public participation
- Government discretion in calling referendums
- Low turnout affecting democratic mandate
What were the two questions asked in the 1997 Scottish Referendum?
- Whether they supported the Scottish Parliament
- Whether the Scottish Parliament could have tax varying powers
What was the turnout and result of the 1997 Scottish Referendum?
Turnout was 60% and the result was yes for both questions.
What was the outcome of the 1998 Good Friday Agreement referendum?
Over 70% voted for the Agreement.
What was the turnout and result of the 2011 AV Referendum?
Turnout was 42% with 67% voting no.
What was the question posed in the 2014 Scottish Independence Referendum?
Whether Scotland should be an independent country.
What was the turnout and result of the 2014 Scottish Independence Referendum?
Turnout was 84.6% with 55.3% voting no.
Fill in the blank: Referendums are often seen as a way to raise voters’ _______.
[political awareness]
What impact can referendums have on political debates?
They can lead to ongoing debates about the outcomes and whether the electorate received the desired benefits.
True or False: Most referendums had poorly worded questions that the electorate found confusing.
False
What thesis statement could be used to argue about the benefits of referendums?
This essay will argue that referendums have/have not brought desired benefits.
