Participation and turnout

Question 1

FPTP?

Answer 1

• some argue it discourages participation because it discourages supporters of smaller parties to turn out and vote, as their vote will probably be wasted
• on the other hand, turn out at elections is not in steady decline
• many other factors also effect voter turnout such as the personalities involved

Question 2

STV?

Answer 2

• comparing using other systems is tricky

- Traditionally Northern Ireland has had high rates of turnout

Question 3

AV?

Answer 3

• Absence of wasted votes should in theory encourage participation and turnout
• no firm evidence as no European countries use AV