-A proportion of seats are elected
using F-P-t-P in single seat
constituencies.
A smaller number of
representatives, 'additional
members' are elected in
multi-seat constituencies.
Electors cast two votes: one for
their favoured candidate and
one for their favourite party
List seats are allocated on a
corrective basis to ensure that the
number of seats for parties is
proportional to the number of votes
they won
Disadvantages
Advantages
Plurality System
First-Past-the-Post
First-Past-the-Past is a
simple plurality system
which means that the
winner doesn't need an
absolute majority to win
but one more vote than
their closest rival.
Electors cast a single vote by placing an
('X') on the ballot paper next to the name
of their favoured candidate.
MP's are elected in single-seat
constituencies- each of the 650
constituencies in the UK elect one
representative to the House of Commons.
Advantages
Disadvantages
Simplicity: F-P-t-P is easy to
understand, one vote, cross
in a box; Voters are familiar with this system.
Clear Outcome: Usually provide a clear winner. (No
coalitions)
Strong and Stable Government: Typically produces a
one-party government.
Proportional System
Single Transferrable Vote
Representatives are
elected in large
multi-seat
constituencies.
Voting is preferential-
electors indicate their
preferences by writing '1'
and '2' etc. beside the
name of their favourite
candidates. (Voters can
vote for as many or as
few candidates as they
like.)
A candidate must achieve a quota (droop
quota) to be elected- any votes that exceed
the quota are redistributed on the basis of
second preferences.
If no candidate reaches the quota on
the first count, the lowest-placed
candidate is eliminated and their
second preferences are transferred
Eliminations and
redistributions continue until
the number of seats are
filled by candidates who
meet the quota.
Advantages
Proportional Outcome: Ensures that
votes are of largely equal value.
Almost Majority: Only a group of
parties that wins more than 50% of
the popular vote can form a
government.
Choice: Voters can
choose between a large
range of candidates,
including different
candidates from the
same party.
Disadvantages
Accuracy: The system is less
accurate in translating votes
into seats than list systems or
some versions of AMS.
Multi-seat Constituencies: Large
multi-seat constituencies weaken the
link between individual MPs and their
constituency.