Electoral systems

Question 1

First Past the Post

Answer 1

Simple plurality system where candidate with most votes is elected and does not have to win majority
Candidate with largest number of votes in a constituency elected

Question 2

FPTP advantages

Answer 2

Often leads a strong government with clear mandate- only 3 hung parliament since WW2
Strong representations in small constituencies
Simple and easy to understand

Question 3

FPTP disadvantages

Answer 3

Not a proportional system- votes don’t translate to seats
In 2015, UKIPs 3.8 million votes translated into 1 seat
Safe Seats- nearly 200 seats been represented by same party since WW2
May feel as votes are wasted North East Fife saw 67% of vote wasted for losing candidates as SNP winning constituency with 2 votes
Results in government being elected with minority

Question 4

Single Transferable vote

Answer 4

Divides country into multi-member contituencies
Candidates require certain quota to be elected
Voters number their choice of candidate in order of preference

Question 5

Single transferable vote advantages

Answer 5

Encourages positive campaigning
Seats highly proportional to number of votes
Offers large choice