Encyclopedia of Opinion
Question
Should the UK adopt proportional representation?
Position‹2 of 2

The UK should not adopt Proportional Representation

The UK held a referendum on electoral reform in 2011. Although the referendum was regarding an Alternative Vote system instead of Proportional Representation, the result was clear. Just under 68% of the voting public voted decisively to keep the First Past the Post system. This shows there is little majority for electoral reform in the UK.

Supporting arguments · 3

  1. PR would result in weaker coalition governments
    Proportional Representation would result in a greater number of coalition governments than with first-past-the-post. This could lead to instability and indecisiveness.
  2. PR weakens the link between an elected MP and his or her constituency
    Under the current UK electoral system of first-past-the-post, there is a strong link between an MP and their constituency. Proportional Representation would threaten this with detrimental results for the local community.
  3. Fringe Extremist Parties could gain a foothold
    The current UK first-past-the-post system prevents radical Extremist parties from sending an MP to Parliament. Proportional Representation increases the likelihood of this happening.