Electoral systems Flashcards
What is first past the post
Is is a simple plurality system
How does this system work
You place an cross next to the candidate you prefer to candidate in a single-member constituencies
How do they elected
The candidate with the most is elected. Regardless of the total number of votes cast
What is FPTP used for in the UK
It is used In general and local government elections
What can FPTP produce, what are they and what does it mean
Safe seats
They are when the outcome of the vote will nearly always be the same, in favour of the same one party. This means the vote the is predictable, and campaigning is focused elsewhere
What is a marginal seat
This is where the seats are not so secure, and these become a ‘battleground’ during elections.
How does FPTP effect marginal seats
Under FPTP, individual votes in marginal seats have much more impact on the final result than in safe seats
How does FPTP effect the vote on safe seats
Under FPTP a seat can be quite safe even without the winning candidate getting a majority of the vote
What are the strengths of FPTP
> easy to use and operate
results are efficient and quick
produces a strong stable government and mandate to govern on
strong constituency link
provides the electorate with a clear choice between the government and ‘government in-waiting’
. The system is unlike to change as the public does not really like Chang to occur. For example the 2011 referendum on AV
What are the weaknesses of FPTP
> it does not always produce strong stable government. For example the 2010 coalition and the 2017 government of Theresa may.
Does not accurately convert votes into seats
‘winners bonus’ - the winning party is generally greatly over-represented. Whereas minor parties are greatly under - represented.
produces safe seats
