referendums

• What is a referendum?

  A vote on a single 'yes' or 'no' question
• What is the purpose of a referendum?

  To allow public decision on key issues
• At what levels can referendums be used in the UK?

  National, regional, or local levels
• How do referendums relate to direct democracy?

  They allow public involvement in decision-making
• How can referendums enhance representative democracy?

  By involving citizens in major decisions
• When was the first UK-wide referendum held?

  1975 on EEC membership
• What trend occurred regarding referendums after 1997 in the UK?

  They became more frequent under New Labour
• What are some key UK referendums and their years?

  • 1975: Stay in the EEC (Yes)
  • 1997: Devolution in Scotland & Wales (Yes)
  • 1998: Good Friday Agreement (Yes)
  • 2011: Change to AV voting (No)
  • 2014: Scottish independence (No)
  • 2016: EU membership (Leave)
• What are strengths of representative democracy?

  Politicians assess complex issues better
• What is a criticism of referendums?

  They can oversimplify complex issues
• What risk do referendums pose regarding public opinion?

  Public misinformation or emotional manipulation
• What is a potential consequence of referendums on governance?

  They can undermine parliamentary sovereignty
• How can referendums enhance democracy?

  By increasing political engagement and accountability
• What is the typical process for a referendum?

  Government proposes, Parliament legislates, Commission sets rules
• What is the legal status of most referendums?

  Most are advisory, not legally binding
• What can happen if a government loses a referendum?

  It can damage government credibility
• Why are referendums often called by governments?

  When they are confident of victory
• Why are referendums held?

  • To introduce constitutional reforms
  • To test public opinion
  • To resolve internal party disputes
  • To gain democratic legitimacy
  • To settle divisive national or regional issues
• What does parliamentary sovereignty mean?

  Parliament remains the ultimate legal authority
• What is devolution in the context of referendums?

  Transferring powers to Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland
• What is the 'tyranny of the majority' in referendums?

  Majority will may impose on minorities