Single Transferable Vote (STV)

Question 1

HOW DOES IT WORK

Answer 1

Voters list candidates in order of preference
To get elected - candidate needs to obtain a quota determined by a mathematical formula
Droop Formula
If no candidate reaches quota - lowest ranking candidate = removed and 2nd preferences are counted towards quota for another candidate

Question 2

Where is it used ?

Answer 2

Local & Assembly elections NI - adopted under 1988 Good Friday Agreement
Local Elections Scotland
Also used in Republic of Ireland

Question 3

Constituencies

Answer 3

Multi-Member

Question 4

Advantages

Answer 4

Fairer to smaller parties
Allows voter to choose between candidates of same party
Likely to produce coalitions
Good at securing election of more women & minority groups to leg
Proportional

Question 5

Disadvantages

Answer 5

Complex
Coalitions more likely
No close link between MP & constituency