Use of Referendums

Question 1

What is a referendum?

Answer 1

. A referendum is a vote on a particular issue

. Direct Democracy but used in representative democracy

Question 2

Advantages of Referenda

Answer 2

. Enable the electorate to decide on big constitutional issues

. Engage and educate the electorate

. Strengthen democracy

. Promote participation .e.g 84% turnout on 2014 Scottish independence

. Settle long-standing disputes .e.g 2011 AV referendum 42% turnout (68% said no)

Question 3

Disadvantages of Referenda

Answer 3

.They undermine the authority of parliament ( Brexit court case/ Article 50 )

.Oversimplify complicated issues ( 2016 remain and leave campaigns )

. Place political decisions to those who lack specialised knowledge

. Create factions in parties destroying party unity ( David Cameron)

Question 4

Examples of referendums

Answer 4

. 2011 AV replace FPTP: 43% turnout

. 2014 Scottish Independence: 84% turnout

. 2016 Brexit referendum: 72% turnout