Next year there will be a national referendum on the way we elect our MPs. The proposal is to replace the current 'first-past-the-post' system with the 'alternative vote' whereby voters can list candidates in order of preference. I hope we can have a debate about this important subject.
In my view, Alternative Vote (AV) is a superior method. Every candidate will have to win the support of the majority of their voters, and not just a fraction as is the case in many constituencies. AV encourages voting positively thus eliminating 'tactical' voting. Above all, AV reduces the number of wasted votes and makes every vote count. Currently, the vast majority of our votes make no contribution at all.
Candidates would have to work much harder for our vote, including those in 'safe seats', and not just those in marginals. The voters, all of us, would have greater choice and power over our elected representatives.
That's my view. What do others think?
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