Direct Democracy in the UK (referendums)

• Referendums are a question that the government wants to put to the electorate and so they require a yes or no
• The government can set any referendum question but the Electoral Commission comments on proposed questions
• UK EEC membership 1975


  Harold Wilson called the election because the Labour government were split over the EEC. 67% of the electorate voted to stay in the EEC. Britain remained in the EEC
• Scottish and Welsh devolution 1997

  Blair used referendums to legitimise his constitutional changes. He introduced a Scottish Parliament and a Welsh Assembly. A clear majority voted was 72%. The Scottish Parliament and Welsh Assembly were set up. Each given devolved powers
• Scottish and Welsh referendum 1979


  Growing calls for devolution in Scotland and Wales. Scotland voted to have its own assembly but missed the 40% threshold. Wales voted against having an assembly. Devolution didn’t happen. Scottish nationalists were frustrated
• Greater London Authority 1998


  Part of Blair’s devolution program. A clear majority voted yes 72%. London gained its own assembly and a directly elected mayor
• Northern Ireland Good Friday Agreement 1998


  A landmark in British history. People of NI were asked to support the Peace Agreement to end the Troubles. 71% of voters supported the agreement. A high turnout 81% gave crucial legitimacy to the result. A devolved assembly was set up in Belfast. Power sharing meant nationalists and unionists had a role in government. STV is used in NI
• North East England devolution 2004


  Blair’s Labour government intended to extend devolution to the regions of the UK, introducing regional assemblies. 78% of voters in the North East rejected the plan. Low turnout of 48% suggested a lack of public interest. The government was disappointed. This effectively ended further devolution plans
• Welsh devolution 2011


  Plaid Cymru and Welsh labour both wanted to increase Wales’ laws making powers. Wales voted yes 63% but low turnout of 35.6%. Wales received greater lawmaking powers
• UK alternative Vote 2011


  Coalition agreement included a referendum on AV as a compromise. The Conservatives wanted to keep FPTP whereas the Lib Dems wanted AV. 68% voted to keep FPTP. Only 42% of the electorate turned out. FPTP continues to be used
• Scottish Independence 2014


  David Cameron risked criticism for threatening the break up of the UK, but with an SNP majority in Scotland, he argued he had no choice. 55% of voters chose to remain in the UK. Turnout was 85%. 16-17 year olds were able to vote. Scotland remained in the EU. Scottish Government led by Nicola Sturgeon promised a second referendum , but lost seats in 2017 GE