Voting system

• Explain, in detail , the advantages to an AMS (1)

  1. The AMS gives small parties more seats in parliament. Even if they have no chance of winning, they can pick up seats and oppose the government in parliamen. For example, the Green Party got 8 MSPs in 2021 election.
  2. A minority government is more likely with the AMS. This type of government must listen to and compromise with others so their bills are passed. For example, the SNP has to make deals with the greens.
• Explain, in detail, the advantages of the additional members system (2)

  1. The AMS gives voters more of a choice. People have more MSPs to go to from different parties and backgrounds. For example, every person has 8 MSPs that they can approach with issues.
• Explain, in detail, the disadvantages of the additional members system (1)

  1. One disadvantage of the AMS is it’s more complicated then the uk system. Voters have two ballots and need to choose their favourite person and party. For example, 40% of Scottish people don’t vote cause it’s confusing.
  2. A disadvantage of the AMS is that it results in too many MSPs. Scottish voters are confused about who they can go to with issues. For example, they have 8 MSPs from different parties.
• Explain, in detail, the disadvantages of the additional members system (2)

  1. Another disadvantage of the AMS is that it creates a week government. A minority government spends too much time compromising instead of doing the job quickly. For example, the greens have too much power over the government.