Electoral Systems- The Impact Of Referendums In The UK Flashcards
Referendums that had a significant impact:
+ The 2014 referendum on Scottish independence appeared at first to have settled the issue. There was a high turnout and a decisive result. However, the continued dominance of the SNP in Scottish politics means that a future referendum on Scottish independence could still be held.
+ The 2016 EU referendum shocked the political world. It has resulted in the biggest diplomatic upheaval since the Second World War and revealed that the country was deeply divided on its future direction. These divisions in turn affected general election results.
Referendums that had only a minimal impact:
+ Voters rejected the establishment of a North East Assembly in 2004. While this result slowed the pace of devolution, it has arguably not prevented other areas from creating new political institutions, most notably the Greater Manchester Combined Authority.
+ The 2011 referendum on electoral reform produced a decisive result though on a low turnout. The issue of electoral reform is still not seen as particularly important by most voters.
