voting systems in the uk Flashcards
(10 cards)
e.g.
What is one advantage of the Additional Member System (AMS)?
AMS provides a proportional result, where parties gain a percentage of regional MSPs relative to the percentage of votes they gained.
Example: In 2016, the Greens gained 6% of votes and 7% of MSPs.
How does the First-Past-The-Post (FPTP) system differ from AMS in terms of proportionality?
Under FPTP, results are less proportional.
Example: In the 2024 General Election, Reform gained 14% of votes but only 5 MPs, while the Lib Dems gained under 12% of votes and won 72 MPs.
Why are results under FPTP less proportional, due to ….. being more important to win?
FPTP prioritizes winning constituencies over total votes, disadvantaging parties with widespread support but lacking localised support in constituencies.
What is a potential downside of AMS?
AMS often leads to the formation of a minority government, as no single party is likely to gain a majority under a proportional system, resulting in coalition governments.
Why are coalitions considered both a strength and a weakness?
Coalitions are a strength because they represent more voters. However, they are seen as unfair because smaller ‘kingmaker’ parties have more influence than they should over government and policies.
How did the Greens in Scotland use their coalition power?
The Greens used their coalition with the SNP to pass laws like the smoking ban, despite having only 6.6% of voter support.
What frustration can coalitions cause among voters compared to FPTP?
Coalitions can lead to disputes and compromises between parties, frustrating voters. In contrast, FPTP often creates single-party governments that can pass their manifesto promises without delays.
Why is FPTP seen as more effective in some cases?
FPTP often creates single-party governments, making it easier to pass policies and fulfill campaign promises without delays.
Example: Boris Johnson’s handling of Brexit.
What is the key issue with AMS, despite its proportionality?
AMS leads to coalitions with smaller parties having more power than their support would suggest, which can be seen as unfair.
Why is FPTP considered better in terms of party support?
FPTP is seen as better because it is extremely unlikely that a party with low overall support can have more influence in government than smaller parties.
