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=Questions and Answers - Unit 1, Theme 3=

Elections
Home Politics

Questions
__**Type 1**__


 * (a) 5 Point Questions:**

1.Outline two functions of elections. (SU1) 2.Outline two functions of a general election. (S2003) * 3.Outline the features of the ‘first-past-the-post’ electoral system. (S2004) * 4.What is proportional representation? (S2005) * 5.What is an electoral mandate? (W2004) *


 * (b) 15 Point Questions:**

1.Describe the first-past-the-post’ and the additional member (AMS) electoral systems. (SU1) 2.How does the Westminster electoral system differ from the other electoral systems used in the UK? (S2003) * 3.Describe __three__ other electoral systems which are currently used in the UK. (S2004) * 4.Explain the workings of AMS and STV in the UK. (S2005) * 5.Outline the workings of any __three__ electoral systems currently used in the UK (S2002)2


 * (c) 30 Point Questions:**

c) 1.How have different electoral systems affected the representation of parties in the UK? (SU1) 2.What have been the effects of the use of proportional electoral systems in the UK? (S2003) * 3.Analyse how these other electoral systems have affected the representation of political parties in the UK. (S2004) * 4.To what extent has the use of more proportional electoral systems affected the political process in the UK? (S2005) * 5. What has been the impact on parties of the use of proportional electoral systems in the UK? (S2002) 3

__**Type 2**__


 * (a) 5 Point Questions:**

11.What is a referendum? (SU1, S2002, W 2006) * 12.Outline __two__ differences between a referendum and an election. (W2003) *


 * (b) 15 Point Questions:**

11.Outline __three__ examples of the use of referendums in the UK? (SU1) 12. In what circumstances have governments called referendums? (S2002) 13. Describe the circumstances of three referendums held in the UK (W2003) * 14.Why have referendums been used more frequently in the UK since 1997? (W2006) * 15. In what ways do elections differ from referendums? (W2004) * 16. How has direct democracy been used more in the UK in recent years? (S2005) 4*


 * (c) 30 Point Questions:**

11. What are the arguments against the use of referendums? (SU1) 12. Make a case for the wider use of referendums. (S2002) 13. What are the disadvantages of referendums? (W2003) * 14. To what extent do referendums promote democracy? (W2004, W2006) *

Indicative Content - A Guide to Answering
__**Type (i)**__


 * 5 Point Questions**

//2a)Outline two functions of a general election.// A general election is a full parliamentary election, in which all seats in the House of Commons come up for re-election. General elections are the principal means through which governments are formed or replaced, based upon majority control of the Commons. They supply governments with the legitimacy needed to implement their policy programmes. They are a crucial mechanism of representation and accountability, providing a link between government and the people. They are also a vehicle for political participation.
 * (4-5)** should clearly explain two functions of a general election.
 * (2-3)** should show an awareness of two functions.
 * (0-1)** will identify one function of a general election.

3. a) //Outline the features of the ‘first-past-the-post’ electoral system.// First past the post system is not proportional. It is a plurality system based on a winning candidate having more votes than his/her nearest contenders. Huge constituency majorities may be stored up with FPTP whereas this does not usually occur with PR. First past the post may lead to the election of a government with a minority of the popular vote.
 * (4-5)** will offer a full explanation of the FPTP system.
 * (2-3)** will show understanding of the system.
 * (0-1)** will show limited understanding of the FPTP system.

4a) //What is proportional representation?// Proportional representation is a generic term, and not an electoral system. It describes electoral systems that awards seats elected in an assembly according to the percentage of votes received. Not alt systems display the same degree of proportionality. Proportional representation usually involves the use of list voting or preferential voting or muttimember constituencies to ensure a proportional result. Proportional systems variously reduce the number of votes that are wasted.
 * (4-5)** will offer a precise definition with clear explanation.
 * (2-3)** will offer a reasonably accurate definition with some explanation.
 * (0-1)** will offer a limited and brief description of the term.

//5.a) What is an electoral mandate?// A mandate is a right to govern. An electoral mandate implies that this right is achieved through an electoral system. Governments can carry out their legislative programme if they have the consent of voters to do so. This mandate also implies that governments stick to their manifesto commitments. It does not imply that a majority of voters support the government. A mandate provides a legitimacy and authority for a government to act. (**0-1)** offer only a partial response to the question.
 * (4-5)** offer a full definition with an example.
 * (2-3)** offer an accurate description.


 * 15 Point Questions**

//2b. How does the Westminster electoral system differ from the other electoral systems used in the UK?// Westminster elections use the single-member plurality or ‘first-past-the­post’ system. This is a single-plurality, non-preferential system, based on simple majority being required to win a seat in single-member constituencies. The other systems used are all designed to be more proportional in terms of the relationship between votes and seats. The variant of the additional member system used for elections to the Scottish Parliament, the National Assembly of Wales and the GLA gives voters two votes, one to elect a named candidate and the second to choose a party. The single transferable vote is used for a number of elections in Northern Ireland, including those for the devolved assembly. This system involves preferential voting in multi-member constituencies, a quota that candidates must reach to become elected and the transfer of votes to enable second and third preferences to be taken into account if not sufficient candidates reach the quota. The closed, regional party list system involves voting for a party rather than a specific candidate. The system is proportional and is used for electing UK members of the European Parliament. The London Mayor is elected on the basis of the supplementary vote, a variation of the alternative vote.
 * (11-15)** should clearly describe the key features of the Westminster system and highlight the principle differences between the Westminster and other systems, showing a proper awareness of the majoritarian / proportional distinction. Clear awareness of at least two other systems.
 * (6-10)** should show an awareness of differences between the Westminster and other systems and make specific reference to at least one other system.
 * (0-5)** may identify one electoral system.

3b) //Describe **three** other electoral systems which are currently used in the UK.// The variant of the additional member system used for elections to the Scottish Parliament and the National Assembly of Wales gives voters two votes, one to elect a named candidate and the second to choose a party. The two votes enable a more proportional outcome to the election. The single transferable vote is used for a number of elections in Northern Ireland, including those for the devolved assembly. This system involves preferential voting in multi-member constituencies, a quota that candidates must reach to become elected and the transfer of votes to enable second and third preferences to be taken into account if a candidate fails to reach the quota. The closed, regional, party list system involves voting for a party rather than a specific candidate. The system is proportional and is used for electing UK members of the European Parliament. Mention may also be made of the supplementary vote.
 * (11-15)** should describe three systems (with examples).
 * (6-10)** should describe fewer systems with examples or three systems less-well explained.
 * (0-5)** may be able to identify one electoral system or highlight outline knowledge of some systems.

4b) //Explain the workings of the Additional Member System and the Single Transferable Vote in the UK.// The variant of the additional member system is used for elections to the Scottish Parliament, the National Assembly for Wales and the Greater London Assembly. The system gives voters two votes, one to elect a named candidate and the second to choose a party (candidates are elected using the First Past the Post system, additional party votes use a list system). Additional party vote enables a more proportional outcome to the election. The single transferable vote is used for a number of elections in Northern Ireland, including those for the devolved assembly. This system involves preferential voting in multi- member constituencies, a quota that candidates must reach to become elected and the transfer of votes to enable second and third preferences to be taken into account if a candidate fails to reach the quota. Additionally, the system eliminates bottom placed candidates when re-distribution of second preferences is required.
 * (11-15)** should describe the detailed workings and characteristics of both systems with examples of where they are used.
 * (6-10)** should describe the workings and characteristics of one of the systems with an example of its use or a description of both systems but without supporting examples.
 * (0-5)** should describe one or two of the systems but will not demonstrate sufficient understanding of how they work.


 * 30Point Questions**

//2c. What have been the effects of the use of proportional electoral systems in the UK?// Proportional systems may be fairer for minority parties; the Greens and UKIP both benefited from the use of the list system in the 1999 elections to the European Parliament. These systems may also lead to more broad-based government. In both Scotland and, latterly, in Wales the use of the additional member system has resulted in coalition governments; it is difficult to maintain periods of single party governments that have no majority of votes (Wales). In Northern Ireland the use of the single transferable vote has enabled a divided community to have opposed and minority viewpoints fairly represented at constituency and provincial level. Overall these systems have led to a close relationship between votes and seats.
 * (21-30)** should be able to identify and explain three effects giving appropriate examples.
 * (11-20)** should show an awareness of two effects with some reference to examples.
 * (0-10)** may offer only one example or a thin response.

3c. //Analyse how these other electoral systems have affected the representation of political parties in the UK.// Proportional representation has led to coalition administrations in both Scotland and Wales. This has led to some policy divergence from England (over the issue of student tuition fees in Scotland for example). It may be argued that such coalitions muddy the waters in terms of accountability however. The use of STV in Northern Ireland enables voters of opposing traditions to be represented which would not be possible using the first past the post system. The use of the party list system has widened the range of political party successfully competing in the elections to the European Parliament and led to the election of MEPs from parties such as the Greens and UKIP (and the Liberal Democrats). One negative consequence of this system has been the loss of local constituency representation.
 * (21-30)** should be able to offer an analysis of the impact of the systems with a range of consequences being discussed.
 * (11-20)** should be able to offer either a range of consequences outlined or fewer better discussed.
 * (0-10)** will be more limited in content and evaluation.

4c. //To what extent has the use of more proportional electoral systems affected the political process in the UK?// More proportional systems have affected the political process in the UK in a number of ways, these include: such systems have offered fairer representation for some minority parties; the Greens and UKIP both benefited from the use of the list system in the 1999 and 2004 elections to the European Parliament. These systems have also led to more broad-based government. In both the Scottish Parliament and previously in the National Assembly for Wales, the use of the additional member system has resulted in coalition governments; these systems have led to less single-party domination in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. In Northern Ireland the use of the single transferable vote has enabled a divided community to have opposed and minority viewpoints fairly represented at constituency level. Overall these systems have led to a better relationship between votes and seats. The introduction of the list system for elections to the European Parliament has reduced the extent to which voters have an individual constituency MEP (indeed voters do not vote for a candidate, but for a party in these elections). In London mayoral elections, the winning candidate has to have the support (either on first preferences or upon the redistribution of second preferences) of over half of the vote. Turnout for these elections however has been a disappointment. In contrast, the introduction of PR systems in the UK has had little impact for Westminster elections. In the 2005 general election, the Blair government was retuned with just over one in three of the popular vote and just over one in five of the registered electorates. This has, once again, led to calls for electoral reform for elections to the House of Commons.
 * (21-30)** should discuss a range of effects from both sides of the debate with examples.
 * (11-20)** either offer a partial response with examples or a balanced response tacking examples.
 * (0-10)** offer only one system without an example or a thin response.

__**Type (ii)**__


 * 5 Point Questions**

11 a) //What is a referendum?// A referendum is a vote on a specific issue where Governments present voters with a 'yes' or 'no' choice. They are an example of direct democracy. Referendums may not be officially binding but may be so in reality.
 * (4-5)** should mention a range of characteristics with examples.
 * (2-3)** should mention fewer characteristics.
 * (0-1)** will be limited in scope.

//12 a) Outline two differences between a referendum and an election.//

A referendum is a popular vote on an issue of public policy. Governments present voters with a ‘yes’ or ‘no’ choice. Referendums are an example of direct democracy, in that, through them, the public makes law or policy. Referendums are called at the discretion of government and their outcomes do not threaten the life of the government of the day. Elections are a means of filling political office through a popular vote. They are an example of representative democracy in that they merely select those who will make public policy. Elections are legally prescribed and may bring about the transfer of government power.
 * (4-5)** should clearly explain two characteristics of each, with examples.
 * (2-3)** should clearly explain one characteristic of each with an example.
 * (0-1)** mention one point without description or example.


 * 15 Point Questions**

13 b) //Describe the circumstances of three referendums held in the UK// In the past referendums have been used largely to resolve questions of major constitutional significance. Examples include the referendum to settle the issue of devolution in Scotland and Wales in 1997, or on the Belfast agreement in 1998 or on the Governance of London in 1999. Earlier examples may be used. Referendums have been employed to resolve political deadlocks, such as in the EEC referendum in 1975 when the government was divided over the issue.
 * (11-15)** should fully explain the circumstances of three referendums, highlighting why they were called.
 * (6-10)** should contain two examples of the circumstances of referendums.
 * (0-5)** may identify one example of a referendum.

14b) //Why have referendums been used more frequently in the UK since 1997?// In the past referendums have been used largely to resolve questions of major constitutional significance. Examples include the referendum to settle the issue of devolution in Scotland and Wales in 1997, or on the Belfast agreement in 1998 or on the Governance of London in 1999. These referendums were promises made when Labour were in opposition. Referendums have been used to entrench changes to the constitution and also offer an additional layer of Legitimacy.
 * (11-15 marks)** should contain a number of factors and reference to examples of referendums held in the UK since 1997.
 * (6-10)** should contain examples of referendums.
 * (0-5)** may identify one example of a referendum.

//15 b) In what ways do elections differ from referendums?// A referendum is a vote on a specific issue. Governments present voters with a ‘yes’ or ‘no’ choice and are an example of direct democracy. Referendums may not be officially binding but may be so in reality. Elections are a means of electing representatives, the way governments are chosen and the manner in which power is legitimated.
 * (11-15)** mention two characteristics of each with examples of when these referendums were held and the policies involved.
 * (6-10)** mention one characteristic of each with an example.
 * (0-5)** mention one point without description or example.

16 b) //) How has direct democracy been used more in the UK in recent years?// Direct democracy has been more widely used mainly through the greater use of referendums. There have been referendums on Scottish and Welsh devolution in 1997, as welL as a referendum in Northern Ireland on the Belfast Agreement in 1998. In 1999, Londoners were asked in referendums whether they wanted an elected mayor and a - new London-wide assembly. There have been numerous referendums on the issue of directly elected mayors across the country. There has also been a referendum on the issue of a North-East regional assembly. In addition there is the promise of a referendum on the issue of the proposed EU constitution and if the government decide the time is right on the issue of the single European currency. Reference could be made to the recent consultation exercises undertaken by the government to gauge public opinion.
 * (11-15)** should identify and explain a range of circumstances where direct democracy has been more widely used.
 * (6-10)** may explain fewer examples of direct democracy.
 * (0-5)** may only be a thin response with little range and explanation.


 * 30 Point Questions**

13 c) //What are the disadvantages of referendums?// Most importantly, the public may be seen to be poorly qualified to make the decision, and to be influenced by government or the media. It may also be argued that it is the job of governments to govern and be responsible for decision-making, the use of referendums may allow governments to absolve themselves of their responsibilities. Referendums may be seen as alien to British political culture and likely to undermine the sovereignty of parliament. More practical disadvantages relate to the wording of questions in referendums, which are often insufficiently subtle to deal with complex issues. Referendums provide the potential for media manipulation of public opinion over individual issues. They may also be used by governments to gain greater control over the policy-making process, in that they are called at the discretion of government and can be used to overcome opposition elsewhere.


 * (21-30)** will explain at least four disadvantages, using examples where appropriate.
 * (11-20)** should include at least two disadvantages, using examples where appropriate.
 * (0-10 )** are likely to focus on only one disadvantage, thinly covered.

//14 c) To what extent do referendums promote democracy?// Referendums promote democracy in a number of ways: they encourage political participation, enhance political participation, ensure major constitutional changes have been approved directly by the directorate, keep government in touch with the electorate, and undermine Parliamentary democracy, effectively making decisions binding on the electorate. The fact that referendums have been used for virtually all the main constitutional changes since 1997, suggests that they are becoming a convention that may act as a check on governments. Important constitutional changes deserve popular confirmation. The current political system means that Governments are normally elected without popular support and there is a question about the mandate that parties can rightly claim in such circumstances. There is an argument that votes take more of an interest on specific issues than in party politics and that the use of referendum might lead to an upturn in political participation. Referendums may highlight the debate on a particular topic and lead to a better educated electorate. It may be suggested that when the referendum on the EU constitution is held, the debate will be dominated by the media. Governments should do the governing; people elect politicians to take the decisions and they are accountable at the time of the subsequent general election. Governments may call referendums at the time they think they will get the decision they are after. Referendums undermine parliamentary sovereignty. Do people know enough about the issue to make an informed choice in a referendum?


 * (21-30)** require four fully explained points, with acknowledgement of both sides of the argument.
 * (11-20)** identify two points with examples.
 * (0-10)** may identify one point which offers some explanation or two factors that are not explained.