Referenda

Question 1

Features of a referendum

Answer 1

~ Popular vote on an issue of policy

~ Usually only ask one question

~ Held at the discretion of Parliament

~ Always give a definitive answer, usually with a yes/no answer

~ May be advisory or binding. In the UK they are advisory due to parliamentary sovereignty

Question 2

Distinctions between Referenda and Elections

Answer 2

~ Referenda are on one policy, whereas elections determine how to fill political offices

~ Referenda have a narrow focus whereas elections have lots of different issues addressed

~ Referenda do not threaten the life of the existing government, elections do

~ The outcome of an election is always legally binding, Referenda are merely advisory

~Referenda represent direct democracy, elections representative democracy

Question 3

Referendum called to resolve an issue of constitutional importance

Answer 3

In 1997, Scotland voted on the question “Do you agree that there should be a Scottish Parliament?”

The result was 74% yes on a 60.4% turnout

Question 4

Referendum called to resolve a political deadlock?

Answer 4

In 2014, Scotland voted on the question “Should Scotland be an independent country?”

The result was 55% no on an 84.5% turnout.

Question 5

Referendum called to overcome internal party disputes?

Answer 5

In 2016, the UK voted on the question “Should the United Kingdom remain a member of the European Union or Leave the European Union?”

The result was 52% yes on a 72% turnout