Which electoral system is the Citizens’
Assembly recommending?
The Citizens’ Assembly recommends British Columbians
adopt the “proportional representation by
single-transferable vote” system (PR-STV or
STV). After comprehensive research and extensive public
input, Assembly members are convinced that a made-in-BC version of
STV, branded BC-STV, is the best system for BC. It best
addresses many British Columbians’ electoral values and
will best meet this province’s needs.
During its
decision-making
weekend, the Assembly voted 95% in favour of recommending that
the province adopt BC-STV.
Was BC-STV the only system that the Assembly
considered?
The Assembly first examined the values that should be a
part of any electoral system for British Columbia. These are local
representation,
proportionality and voter choice. Then, the Assembly built two
alternate electoral systems: STV (single-transferable vote) and MMP
(mixed member proportional).
Members engaged in an excellent and thoughtful debate about
which of the two alternative systems would better serve the needs
of the province. You can watch or listen to
recordings
of this historic conversation (see parts 59 and 60). When the
Assembly voted on this question, 123 members voted for
STV and 31 voted for MMP. In total, 80% of the Assembly supported
STV as the best alternative electoral system for BC.