What are the positives and negatives of first-past-the-post and additional member electoral systems?

Define the terms:First past the post system: The MP for each constituency is from the party which got the most votes in that particular constituency. Additional member system: There is one tier of single member district representatives. There is then another tier of so called 'additional members' who are elected to make the overall results more proportional?FPTP: Positives: Stable governments, though this argument has been eroded by experience of coalition government. Clear member-constituency link. Negatives: Lack of proportionality, wasted votes, safe seats.AMS: Positives: Increased proportionality. Improved voter choice - allowing a choice over a range of parties. Negatives: Lack of stable governments, for example years in which Holyrood (Scottish Parliament) was in No Overall Control. Link discussion to other electoral systems, for example PR (Proportional Representation) to improve understanding of whole topic.

MC
Answered by Matthew C. Government and Politics tutor

3529 Views

See similar Government and Politics A Level tutors

Related Government and Politics A Level answers

All answers ▸

What is the difference between negative and positive liberty?


What are the constitutional powers of the president?


What is the difference between an election and a referendum? (5 marks)


How important is it to stay up to date with current affairs when studying for an A Level in Government and Politics?


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2026 by IXL Learning