The Supplementary Vote

Question 1

What is the supplementary vote mainly used for?

Answer 1

To elect a single candidate in a constituency. In the uk, its main use is to elect the city mayors.

Question 2

How does the supplementary vote work?

Answer 2

There are two rounds in selecting a candidate: the first uses the ‘first choices’ in the ballots and adds them up. If an overall majority isn’t won there, then the top two candidates number of ‘second choices’ are added up and whichever candidate gains 50%+, they will be elected.

Question 3

What are the advantages of the supplementary vote system?

Answer 3

It is relatively simple for voters to understand and voters also can express their support for more than one party.

Question 4

What are the disadvantages of the supplementary voting system?

Answer 4

It will promote the two party system which first past the post already worsens and third parties will be excluded from winning seats as it’s only the top two that’s considered after the first choice.