Thank you for contacting me about the voting system in the UK.
I fully support First Past the Post (FPTP). FPTP is a tried-and-tested system that ensures stability and clear governance. It prevents disproportionate influence by minority parties with minimal public support who typically end up holding the balance of power in Proportional Representation (PR) systems.
The British people were clear on this matter in a referendum on voting systems in 2011. FPTP is well established and understood by voters. It provides a clear and robust way of electing Members of Parliament and there is an unambiguous link between constituents and their representatives in Westminster.
For the most part, FPTP produces governments with working majorities in Parliament. This leads to efficient and effective decision-making. FPTP also allows for the formation of a strong opposition party that can provide a check on the power of the government of the day. I believe that alternative systems are less transparent, more complicated and less likely to lead to effective government.
For these reasons, I do not believe a citizens' assembly on electoral reform or a change to our electoral system is necessary. Indeed, I would like to point out that the United Kingdom already has a citizens’ assembly – in the form of the House of Commons – which is made up of public representatives, directly selected by the British people, in every part of the country.
Thank you again for taking the time to contact me.
