AMS ( Additional Member System )

Question 1

How does the system work?

Answer 1

This system is basically a combination of FPTP and Party List voting

1. Each voter has 2 votes, one vote for a single MP via FPTP and the other for a regional or national party list, half the seats or more are allocated to the single member constituencies and the rest to the party list.
2. The percentage of votes obtained by the parties in the party list vote determines their overall number of representatives
3. The party lists are used to top up the FPTP seats gained by the party to the required number

Is used in Germany and was chosen to be used in New Zealand after a 1993 referendum which decided its introduction

Question 2

What are the weaknesses of AMS?

Answer 2

. Those that are currently underrepresented will fair little better under AMS
. It creates 2 types of MP, one with a constituency role and duties and without such a base
. Half of all MPs are not directly accountable to any voters, just to their party leadership and have no constituency

Question 3

What are the advantages of AMS?

Answer 3

. It retains a number of single member constituencies
. Ensures that each elector has at least one effective vote, even if they see no chance of winning in the single constituency - reduces the likelihood of wasted votes