1. I am in favour of mixed member proportional representation
(MMP) with a reasonable minimum percentage lower threshold to get a
seat.'
Reasons: The many countries around the world where this system
is now used have a much better record of fair representation while
preserving local representation. They also elect more women and
minorities. This is important to me, along with the idea that each
vote counts. I am in favour of minority governments that work
together to meet the needs of all the people, not just a slim
majority.
2. I am opposed to keeping the system we have.
Reasons: It is unfair. The number of seats won should closely
reflect the percentage of votes cast for that party. With 58% of
the vote, the BC Liberal Party got 97% of the seats in the last
election. I prefer a system that does not allow this to happen. I
prefer a system that guarantees the 42% of people who did not vote
Liberal are politically represented in the legislature.
3. I am opposed to the single transferable vote (STV)
system.
Reasons: I am not in favour of choosing a system that sounds
excellent in theory but in practice doesn't work consistently in
the two countries (Malta and Ireland) that have adopted it.
4. I am opposed to the "preferential plus" system proposed by
Nick Loenen.
Reasons: It seems to be an attempt to ensure a one-sided,
un-representative government in perpetuity, incorporating nearly
all the disadvantages I have outlined above.
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