for referendums

• Elected representatives are held accountable in between elections
• Gives legitimacy to government action
• Although referendums are advisory, government is compelled to listen to what the people want - 2016 80% of MPs wanted to remain but 77% voted to enact Article 50
• Carefully worded questions avoid voter bias
• Provide a clear answer to a question - Good Friday 1998 had both a high turnout of 81 % and overwhelming 71% yes
• Results have been successfully implemented in devolved bodies
• Increased participation and greater representation of views, which enhances representative democracy
• Promotes a liberal democracy by prompting voters to educate themselves, limiting government power (overseen by Electoral Commission), and enhancing consent and thus democratic legitimacy
• Enjoy high turnouts e.g. 85% in 2014 and 72% in 2016