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Evaluate the view that the emergence of multiple parties in the UK means that the Westminster electoral system must be changed - Edexcel - A-Level Politics - Question 2 - 2021 - Paper 1
Question 2
Evaluate the view that the emergence of multiple parties in the UK means that the Westminster electoral system must be changed. You must consider this view and the ... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Evaluate the view that the emergence of multiple parties in the UK means that the Westminster electoral system must be changed - Edexcel - A-Level Politics - Question 2 - 2021 - Paper 1
Step 1
Evaluate the view that the emergence of multiple parties means the Westminster electoral system must be changed.
Answer
The emergence of multiple parties in the UK has certainly prompted debates regarding the need for changes in the Westminster electoral system. Supporters of electoral reform argue that the current First Past the Post (FPTP) system does not adequately represent the diverse political opinions in a multi-party landscape. For instance, the divergence in party representation is starkly evident in devolved elections, where systems like the Additional Member System (AMS) have allowed for a more proportional representation.
Furthermore, tactical voting has become a common phenomenon where voters feel compelled to vote strategically rather than for their preferred candidate, as expressed through the discontent regarding first-choice preferences. This situation is perceived to undermine the democratic principle of genuine voter expression and preference.
Moreover, the argument for change includes the assertion that the current system leads to unequal representation. Parties like the Labour and Conservative parties do not dominate all regions equally. As the political landscape evolves, the argument is that the FPTP electoral system no longer adequately accounts for this shift, leading to calls for systems that allow for more proportional representation.
On the contrary, maintaining the existing electoral system has its supporters who argue that the Westminster system provides stable governance. Advocates assert that a single-party system simplifies decision-making processes and can deliver accountable government. They highlight that major changes could disrupt existing political stability and compromise the clarity of representation provided by FPTP.
In conclusion, while there are compelling arguments on both sides, the increasing complexity of the UK political landscape due to multiple parties warrants a thorough evaluation of the electoral system. A balanced approach might involve reforming aspects of the system while maintaining its core to ensure both representation and stability.
Step 2
Discuss the alternatives to this view.
Answer
Alternatives to the argument for changing the Westminster electoral system include reinforcing the current system or modifying it in light of proportional representation.
One argument is that the Westminster system has delivered effective single-party governments that can implement policies without the hindrance of coalition politics. This sentiment reflects the belief that the need for efficiency in governance must be prioritized over a modified representation of parties.
Additionally, the idea of introducing a supplementary voting system or implementing Partial Proportional Representation could also be a middle ground solution. Such alternatives would preserve the ability to have majority outcomes in constituencies while also allowing smaller parties a better chance of representation.
Lastly, detractors of change often point to the chaos seen in systems with higher proportional representation, arguing that it can lead to fragmented parliaments and unclear mandates, ultimately distilling the essence of accountable governance that FPTP has historically provided.
In summary, maintaining the current system or opting for moderated reforms may provide a balancing solution to ensure political stability while accommodating the rise of multiple parties within the political framework.