against referendums

• Binary question which reduces complex issues too much
• Puts too much power in the electorate

  • Delegitimising the power of politicians e.g. in 2016 Cameron resigned as he wanted to remain
  • Not all have political literacy
  • Elected politicans have more expertise to act rationally e.g. in 2016 EU voters immigration fears and perceived damage to "British values" allowed for emotional decision making
• Elected representatives consider minority and majority when making decisions

  • Scottish independence voters did not have to consider the rest of the UK
  • EU referendum did not have to consider NI
• Undermines Parliamentary sovreignty
• Undermines representative democracy and the trustee model
• Referendums are ad hoc and advisory

  • However in 2022, following the Gina Miller case, the Supreme Court ruled that Parliament had to vote to enact Article 50
  • 2016 MP Creagh for Wakesfield voted against enacting Article 50 even though her constituency voted overwhelmingly to Leave
• Tyranny of the majority e.g. Scotland tyrannised by English majority - 62% voted to Remain
• Media can lack transparency e.g. 350 Million Red Bus
• Turnout has been low - 38% in 1998 Elected Mayor
• Turnour is only generated for bigger issues
• Can cause division, especially with a close result and no quorum

  • 2016 EU had 51.9% Leave and 48.1% Remain - division and calls for 2nd referendum
  • 2014 Scottish referendum 55.3% no and 44.7% yes - second one pushed for by SNP