Democracy: Disadvantage of the Additional Member System

Question 1

it can be confusing

Answer 1

• AMS is more difficult for voters to understand due to there being 2 votes, the system uses a complex formula to allocate seats + each person has 8 MSPs, this can lead to spoilt ballot papers which are disqualified or people not voting at all
• for example, in the 2021 Scottish Parliament elections, 37% of the electorate did not turn out to vote (maybe because they didnt understand how to)

Question 2

it can lead to a weak + unstable government

Answer 2

• AMS increases the chances of coalition or minority governments which may be less stable than a majority government, too much time can be wasted + law making can be slow instead of getting the job done quicker, causing frustration amongst the population
• for example, the SNP has created a cooperation with the Green Party to help pass legislation + has to rely on them in crucial votes

Question 3

it can cause conflict between MSPs

Answer 3

• as Scottish voters have 8 representatives, often from different parties, that can lead to confusion over who is responsible for what + who they can go and see if they have a problem, constituency MSPs may be seen as more important + regional ones seen as a ‘waste of space’
• for example, our local MSP Kenneth Gibson may conflict with regional MSPs from other parties on matters in North Ayrshire