Submission LEROUX-0041 (Online)

There are numerous proposals and recommendation papers written on proportional representation; among the many, is the discussion paper 'The Reform of the Voting System in Quebec' available at:

http://www.assnat.qc.ca/eng/publications/rapports/rapci1eng.htm#39

I am sure that the members of the Citizens' Assembly are already familiar or will be thoroughly briefed on most of them. Hence I intend to make my recommendations short and to the point.

Recommdenations:

1. Any proportional representation system (e.g. the German system) that the Citizens' Assembly would recommend could not possibly be worse than our present "winner take all" electoral system. Hence some kind of proportional representation system is considered absolutely necessary (the German system is my preferred option).

2. The Premier of BC must be elected directly by the people.

3. The Speaker of the Legislative Assembly (in whatever proportional system) must be elected directly by the people to prevent any perception, real or apparent of favouritism and/or impartiality for any political/social debate.

4. Once elected, a member cannot change political affiliation and/or declare himself/herself independent without a by-election being held in the specific riding represented by the incumbent.

Submitted for your consideration