effectiveness of one voting system (12) Flashcards
introduction
This essay will discuss the effectiveness of the additional Member Systems (AMS) which is used to elect MSP’s in Scotland. Strengths and weaknesses will be exclaimed before conducting a conclusions on AMS fair representation.
proportional representation-explain
AMS often results in proportional representation as the % of MSPs each party has, broadly matches the % of the vote they won, this is from the use of the d’hondt formula making it a fairer election.
proportional representation- example
For example, in 2021 the SNP won 48% of the votes, they went on to gain 50% of seats in parliament. And the Scottish conservatives won 22% of the votes, which resulted in them gaining 24% of seats
proportional representation- analysis
Meaning the Scottish Parliament can more fairly and accurately present the Public and its will. The proportional representation also ensure smaller parties gain seats. As not all voters in Scotland are support the establish parties, the regional list section allows smaller parties to gain representation.
strength of voter choice- whole paragraph
AMS allows greater voter choice, as voters have 2 ballots. In the first ballot, the voter chooses one candidate from a list to elect their constituency MSP. The second ballot allows them to vote for a party whose polices they support and these vote elect the 7 regional MSPs in each region. Voters can go any of the 8 MSPs from the regional list for assistance. This is important, as it gives voters 2 chances to exercise their fundamental democratic right to vote. Constituency can contact any of their 8 MSP providing voters with a choice of representative to approach with any issue or concerns they may have.
failed fair representative- explain
n AMS, parties are more powerful than voters, as the regional list ballot is a closed list therefore only the parties name is visible to the public. This gives some individuals double odds to being elected,
failed fair representative- example
for example Lorna Slater from the Green Party who lost the constituency vote but was highly placed on the regional list, thereby giving her an 2nd chance of election.
failed fair representative- analysis
his is important as the closed list of regional MSP has led to some to question the transparency nature of AMS. This may result in individuals voting for a party who they are loyal with, rathering voting for effective politicians. The candidates and the order in which they are potentially elected is chosen by the parties themselves meaning individuals who is unknown or disliked by constituents can be elected regardless of local constituent opinions. This provide a clear reason that AMS may be effective at fair presentation.
conclusion
in conclusion,it has been shown that AMS cannot be said to truly provide a fair representation of the public vote as in the second ballots cannot see individual candidates they are voting for and this provides with more power than the voters vote. However, the votes are more fairly equal to % of seat a party may get.
