Electoral Reform Scheme: Give voters real choice

Friday, 5 February 2010 12:00 AM

The Electoral Reform Society has welcomed moves for the referendum on electoral reform, proposed by the Prime Minister on Tuesday, to offer voters a chance to opt for the single transferable vote (STV) method. [1]

Ken Ritchie, Chief Executive of the Society, said:

Much as we welcome the Prime Ministers initiative, a change in our electoral system from first-past-the-post to the Alternative Vote would be a very minor reform.

The Alternative Vote would not guarantee us a more representative parliament and would do little to improve the accountability of politicians after the expenses debacle of 2009. If we are to have a referendum, it should offer voters an opportunity to make real and effective changes.

STV is the one system that would give us better representation and at the same time empower voters but allowing them a wider choice, including the choice between candidates of the same party. STV has the potential to change the nature of our politics for the better, and we therefore hope that MPs of all parties will give this amendment their support.

[1] http://www.publications.parliament.uk/pa/cm200910/cmbills/004/amend/pbc0040302a.777-779.html

For further information, contact:

Ashley D 07968791684 or Dr Ken Ritchie on 07754165551

About Single Transferable Vote (STV)

In over a century of research and campaigning the Society is convinced that preference voting throughthe Single Transferable Vote (STV)representsthe best system available for guaranteeing choice and competition in our elections and producing government that reflects the will of the people. For more info see http://www.electoral-reform.org.uk/article.php?id=48

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