This is a follow-up comment on a previous submission that I made
[
SCHOLEFIELD-0061].
In that submission, I stated my preference for some form of mixed
member proportional [MMP] representation (PR) voting system. The
current political posturing in preparation for the next federal
election has brought to light one particular advantage in a mixed
member PR voting system in that it gives political parties the
opportunity to appoint some highly qualified candidates. Mr Martin
has come under fire for appointing some such candidates in selected
ridings, side stepping the usual electoral method of the
constituency associations. Mr Harper, on the other hand, has said
he would ban this practice. A mixed member PR voting system would
allow every constituency association to nominate their preferred
candidate but there would still be room for some highly qualified
candidates to be nominated by the party as potential MPs. Mr Martin
has realized the merit in being able to appoint some "star"
candidates and a mixed member PR system would automatically
incorporate this procedure without disrupting the constituency
process.