3 (a) Outline two differences between elections and referendums. - Edexcel - A-Level Politics - Question 3 - 2016 - Paper 1

Scope of Issues: A referendum is focused on a single, specific issue, allowing the public to express their preference on that matter directly. In contrast, elections cover a multitude of issues as voters choose representatives who will address various concerns during their tenure.

Accountability Mechanism: Elections hold politicians accountable, as officials can be voted out of office if voters are dissatisfied with their performance. Referendums do not provide the same level of accountability since they deal with specific questions rather than personnel or policies initiated by individual officials.