Refurendums

Question 1

Against referendums

Answer 1

Complex issues- eg capital punishment- lack of public understanding
Vote for wrong reasons- 2011 AV - negative campaigning
Parliamentary sovereignty- 1973 and 1979
Low turnout- London mayor- 72% yes
66% failed to vote
Dip publics hands in the blood

Question 2

For referendums:

Answer 2

Direct democracy- Peter Mandelson
Clear answer- EU in/out 2016- questioned for over 40 years
Specific issues- restores problem with mandate theory
Can unite divided government- 2016 Cameron silence euroskeptics

Question 3

Definition of referendum.

Answer 3

A direct vote in which an entire electorate can accept or reject a proposal.

Question 4

What is the trend in use of referendums in the UK?

Answer 4

Increased number of referendums since 1977. Peter Mandelson- it may be the era of representative democracy is coming to an end.

Question 5

Give 3 examples of referendums:

Answer 5

May 2011- AV vote
2014- Scottish independent
2017- Europe in/out

Question 6

Why may referendums be a bad thing? - quotes

Answer 6

“Devices alien to our tradition, the instruments of demagogues and dictators” clement Atlee

Tyranny of the majority- js mills

Question 7

What was the result of Scottish independence?

Answer 7

No- 55%
Yes- 45%
Turnout 84.6

Question 8

Result of AV referendum?

Answer 8

68% in favour of FPTP

Turnout- 42.2