UK- Elections and referendums

Question 1

Elections and referendums

Explain and analyse three arguments in favour of reforming the system used for westminster elections

Answer 1

intro: uk uses a number of voting systems but the main one is PFTP (majoritarian system)

1-Unrepresentative nature. In 2019 the conservatives won 77 more votes than they would have in a proportional system
2-does not always produce majority. 2015,2017
3-Low turnout. FPTP means many people have less interest in voting in a two horse race. especially in safe seats.Wasted votes. 22.6 million votes were wasted in the 2019 election.

Question 2

Elections and referendums

Explain and analyse the role of media in elections you have studied. One must be 1997, one earlier and one after

Answer 2

intro: media is the way is which the wider public is informed via broadcasting,TV , radio and social media

1-1983. Media influence fell to the newspapers. The sun : “vote for maggie”
2-1997. The sun : “its the sun wot won it” blair who flew to meet sun owner
3-2017. May refused to appear on televised debates, made her seem weak and she lacked personality

Question 3

Elections and referendums

Explain and analyse three arguments for the greater use of referendums in the uk

Answer 3

intro: referendums - a general vote by the electorate on a single political question

1-Greater turnout and interest. 84.5% turnout in the Scottish referendum 2014. People are passionate about the issue compared to PCC which has never been higher then 15%
2-Education. For issues such as scottish referendum and Brexit referendum many people seek better education as it is a single issue eg brexit bus with £350 million figure that was untrue
3-Representation. The specific referendums allow for direct beliefs of the majority of the population to be shown and to settle issues eg AV referendum in 2011