Topic 7.1 - Elections Flashcards
1
Q
Where is FPTP used?
A
England - local and general elections
2
Q
Features of FPTP
A
- one vote per person
- vote for candidate to represent their constituency
- candidate with most votes elected as MP
- party with most votes becomes gov
3
Q
Advantages of FPTP
A
- often leads to a strong gov with a clear mandate to carry out policy
- clear and easy for the electorate to understand
- provides voters with a clear choice
- provides strong representation of constituencies
4
Q
Disadvantages of FPTP
A
- not proportional
- limited choice for some voters (safe seats eg- Red Wall)
- govs can be elected with less than 50% of the vote and can still have over 50% of seats (eg- 2019: CON won with 43% of votes but 365 seats -> clear majority and well over 50% of seats)
5
Q
Where is AMS (additional member system) used?
A
Scotland and Wales
6
Q
Features of AMS
A
Voters have 2 votes:
- constituency representative
- additional representative
7
Q
Advantages of AMS
A
- more choice
- proportional element
8
Q
Disadvantages of AMS
A
- smaller parties less represented
- lacks democratic transparency
- multiple representatives in constituencies - can be hard for constituents to know who to turn to
9
Q
where is SV (Supplementary Vote) used?
A
England (police and crime commissioner elections) and Wales
10
Q
features of SV
A
- voter has 1st and 2nd preference vote
- winner has over 50% of the vote
11
Q
advantages of SV
A
- simple
- stops candidates winning through having a small level of support
12
Q
disadvantages of SV
A
- votes can be wasted
- not proportional to regional wishes
- winner doesn’t need an absolute majority- just need over 50% of votes
13
Q
where is STV used?
A
Northern Ireland
14
Q
features of STV
A
- voters order candidates in order of preference
- once candidates meet quota - votes reallocated to 2nd preferences
- remaining votes continue to be used until all seats are filled
15
Q
advantages of STV
A
- large choice for voters
- highly proportional
