Referendums Flashcards
Give two examples of referendums in the UK
1975- do you think that the UK should remain in the EEC? 67% voted yes
2011- do you think that the UK should adopt AV+ as an alternative to FPTP? 68% voted no, 41% turnout
What are referendums?
Referendums ask voters a single question on a specific issue, and usually require a simple yes/no answer.
What is an indicative referendum?
A referendum which gauges opinion on a particular issue and is not binding- indicative referendums are more widely used than binding referendums.
What is a binding referendum?
One that will lead to a legislative change. Due to the serious nature of these referendums, a threshold usually has to be reached before the act becomes legally binding. Furthermore they are usually taken AFTER the legislation has been passed by the legislature, to provide popular ratification.
Give some examples of thresholds
In the 1979 devolution referendum, a threshold of 40% had to be reached.
In Italy, 50% of the electorate has to participate for the referendum to be legal.
Are there alternatives to yes/no referendums?
Yes. In a 1993 referendum in New Zealand, voters had to choose between several different electoral systems.
Reason 1 for holding referendums is…
To legitimise constitutional change
Reason 2 for holding referendums is…
To entrench constitutional change
Reason 3 for holding referendums is…
To settle ethical and moral issues
Reason 4 for holding referendums is…
To overcome political disunity
