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Submission MARKVOORT-1171 (Online)

Submission By Bill Markvoort
AddressNew Westminster, BC,
Organization
Date20040812
CategoryElectoral system no change
Abstract
Our present system forces parties to gather as many voices as they can under their banner and then compromise for the greater good of the majority. That mimics life in general.  I suppose I could say "If it ain't broke don't fix it". [1 page]

Submission Content
I have not had great opportunity to research all the various systems of proportional voting but I am concerned about changing the way we elect MLAs. A lot of the literature about proportional voting systems [PR] relates to new voting systems in the former East Bloc countries, not excactly bastions of democracy. Italy is good example of proportioanl representation and it has a 50 year history of unstable governments. I am quite concerned that by allowing many small splinter parties to be represented in the legislature we will create a tyranny of the minorities. Our present system forces parties to gather as many voices as they can under their banner and then compromise for the greater good of the majority. That mimics life in general.

I suppose I could say "If it ain't broke don't fix it" but Nicollo Machiavelli said it much better in the Prince. To paraphrase his words "Don't mess with the constitution"

B.C. has a stable government. Let's leave it at that. Minority positions can be worked out through the diligent application of lobbying the major parties.

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