3.1 Electoral Systems Flashcards
What are the 5 functions of elections
Representation, choosing the government, accountability, participation, influence over policy
What is the function of representation in elections
Choosing a representative to provide a link between you and parliament. Party leadership can influence how an MP votes but ultimately MPs must be mindful of constituents
What is the function of choosing the government in an election
The winning party leader forms a government.
FPTP usually produces a clear winner
How many hung parliaments have there been since 1945
3
What is the function of accountability in elections
General elections every 5 years forces a renewal of the mandate and voters can reject or re-elect governments. Also forces them to answer questions the voters have and explain their actions
What is an example of accountability at elections
The 2009 expenses scandal saw lots of MPs to stand down at the election
What is the function of participation in elections
It’s the main way most people take part in politics, manifestos provide promises
What are some examples and trends of participation in elections
1945-1997 averaged 75% turnout in elections but 1997-2024 averaged 65%.
In 2010 Nick Clegg promised to not raise tuition fees which was one of his main aims, this led to a lot of student support and voters yet he resisted them from £3000 to £9000 a year
What is the function of influence over policy in elections
Voters have limited direct influence over policy but parties must offer what they think there voters want. Election defeats gives parties a chance to remove unpopular policies
What are the 4 most important criteria in a voting system
A fair result that gives equal value to peoples vote across the country
A choice of candidates
An effective link between the elected representative and the constituency
A strong government that can pass laws but can be held accountable by voters
When’s FPTP used
General elections
What’s another word for FPTP
Westminster system
How do people win a seat in FPTP
Win the most votes in the constituency
Who forms a government with FPTP
Party with the largest number of seats
What happened in 1951 and 1974
The party forming a governments had fewer votes but more seats than the losing party
What is the basis of representation
Single member seat constituencies.
Dual member seats were abolished in 1948
What is there average size of a seat
Around 70000 people.
Dependent on location
Isle of Wight has around 110000
Who monitors constituencies
Independent boundary commission
What are the 4 advantages of FPTP
Speed, strong and stable government, exclusion of extremists, strong MP-constituency link
How is speed an advantage of FPTP
Results produced quickly.
Swift and orderly transition of power.
Give evidence of speed in FPTP
In 2024: people voted Thursday and there was a new government on Friday.
In 2010: hung parliament which led to an unusual 5 day wait where there were parties talking about coalitions
What did the FPTP referendum in 2011 tell us about the electorates thoughts
68% rejected AV, meaning its popular
What is an example of a long wait under proportional representation
Belgium took 18 months as there system is proportional
