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Assess the merits of the different electoral systems operating in the UK. - Edexcel - A-Level Politics - Question 3 - 2016 - Paper 1
Question 3
Assess the merits of the different electoral systems operating in the UK.
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Assess the merits of the different electoral systems operating in the UK. - Edexcel - A-Level Politics - Question 3 - 2016 - Paper 1
Step 1
FPTP
Answer
First Past the Post (FPTP) is a prevalent electoral system in the UK known for producing strong and stable governments. One of its chief advantages is the speed at which results are generated, often delivering outcomes on election night. However, this system exhibits drawbacks, primarily its tendency to discriminate against smaller political parties, leading to a lack of proportionality. Consequently, while FPTP may guarantee decisive results, it might sacrifice accuracy and fairness in representation.
Step 2
AMS
Answer
The Additional Member System (AMS) combines elements from both FPTP and a List system, promoting both constituency links and proportionality. This dual representation model effectively addresses some FPTP shortcomings. However, it has been criticized for its complexity, as it creates two types of representatives which can lead to confusion. Furthermore, while AMS has been successful in forming coalitions, it does not always yield clear majorities, as evidenced by the Scottish National Party (SNP) securing a majority in 2011 despite the system's potential for coalition politics.
Step 3
STV
Answer
Single Transferable Vote (STV) is employed in the Northern Ireland Assembly to extend voter choice by allowing them to rank candidates. This method aims to minimize wasted votes as it enables voters to express preferences across multiple candidates within the same party. However, it tends to produce complex results which can lead to confusion. Many argue that while STV provides a more representative system, its operational intricacies may detract from the overall electoral experience.
Step 4
Closed Party List
Answer
The Closed Party List system is used for electing Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) in the UK, with a focus on proportional representation. In this system, voters select a party rather than individual candidates, ensuring that all votes count and small parties do not face undue disadvantage. Nevertheless, the system’s hierarchical nature may lead to a situation where larger parties dominate seats, potentially sidelining smaller parties, thus impacting the representation of diverse views in Parliament.
Step 5
Supplementary Vote
Answer
The Supplementary Vote is utilized for the election of the Mayor of London, allowing voters to express a first and second preference. The winner requires over 50% of first-choice votes; if that threshold is not met, all but the top two candidates are eliminated, and second-choice votes are counted. Although this system aims to ensure that elected candidates have a broad base of support, it has faced criticism for not truly reflecting voter intentions, as individuals can only rank preferences rather than indicate all choices.