A commission on voting reform is essential | Letters
Sandy Martin and Joan Ruddock respond to an article on changes to the voting systemYour report (Labour MPs will push Burnham to back voting reform in first 100 days, 25...
By Guardian Staff · The Guardian Opinion
Sandy Martin and Joan Ruddock respond to an article on changes to the voting system Your report ( Labour MPs will push Burnham to back voting reform in first 100 days, 25 August ) says: “The UK last rejected electoral reform in 2011 after a referendum [on] whether to change to an alternative vote system.” Many people do not realise that the referendum was not about a proportional electoral system. While the alternative vote is the best way to elect a single person, it really doesn’t work for a government. That referendum was primarily a popularity contest for Nick Clegg, and it is no surprise that he was rejected, predominantly by people who were not aware of the actual terms of the referendum. A national commission, taking evidence from people across the country, followed by a general election that includes a manifesto commitment to changing the system, will be a far more reliable and accurate representation of the views of the British people than a referendum is ever likely to be. Sandy Martin Chair, Labour Campaign for Electoral Reform Continue reading...