The United Kingdom Parliament - Elections

Question 1

Elections to the House of Commons basic (2 points)

Answer 1

• General Election must be held every 5 years (fixed term parliaments act 2011)
• By-election may be held at any time if seat becomes vacant

Question 2

Early Election possible if:

Answer 2

• 2/3 of MPs resolve

- House of Commons passes a motion of no confidence in Government

Question 3

Candidate Requirements (4 points)

Answer 3

• over 18
• British/Irish/Commonwealth Citizen
• Not subject to disqualification (police/judge/insane)
• £500 deposit must be paid

Question 4

Registered parties basic (3 points)

Answer 4

• Party affiliation is very importing for election candidates
• Only registered parties can nominate election candidate (Parties, Election and Referendum Act 2000)
• Parties are free to decide how to select candidates

Question 5

Registered Parties must: (4 points)

Answer 5

• Publish annual account
• Not accept anonymous/foreign donations
• Publish details of donations over £1500
• Comply with election expenditure rules

Question 6

Right to Vote. Requirements (6)

Answer 6

• over 18
• British/Irish/Commonwealth citizen
• Not subject to legal restriction (MHL, mental incapacity, prisoner)
• Registered
• UK citizens residing overseas can vote at last registered address or 15 years
• If absent on polling day, you can vote by post

Question 7

Controversial Issues (voting)

Answer 7

• Hirst v UK 2006 (prisoner)

- Scottish Independence Referendum Act 2013 (age)

Question 8

Constituency Campaign (3 points)

Answer 8

• free use of meeting rooms and free postage
• limits on reporting of candidate expenses
• Election petition (R. Woodlands vs Parliamentary Election Court 2012)

Question 9

The National Campaigns (2)

Answer 9

• limits on party election expenditures

- Third parties may spend up to £10000 in Scotland/Wales/N. Ireland without limit

Question 10

Elections basic (2)

Answer 10

• Election campaigns are strictly regulated to ensure fair outcome
• Electoral commission oversees election and ensure compliance with spending rules

Question 11

Broadcasting

Answer 11

• No Political Advertising (Communications Act 2003)
• Media must obtain impartiality
• Newspapers not subject to any legal restrictions

Question 12

FPTP advantages (3)

Answer 12

• simple to understand
• usually produces clear outcome
• promotes strong and accountable Government

Question 13

FPTP disadvantages (4)

Answer 13

• Results in ‘wasted’ votes + tactical voting
• Uneven constituency size
• Exaggerates support for major parties
• Discriminates against small parties