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Submission LIGHTOWLERS-1267 (Online)

Submission By Christy Lightowlers
AddressVictoria, BC,
Organization
Date20040813
CategoryElectoral system change
Abstract
I am opposed to the current electoral system and favour MMP. I am not in favour of STV and even less in favour of the 'Preferential Plus' proposal by Nick Loenen. [1 page]

Submission Content
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. The minimum threshold is to eliminate the problems encountered in Israel where they don't have a minimum and the system doesn't work. On the other hand, 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. One that guarantees that the 42% of the 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 particular, Malta and Ireland have very few women reps and at one point, didn't Malta fail to elect the government with a majority of the vote?

4. I am opposed to the "preferential plus" system proposed by Nick Loenen.

Reasons: It seems to be a blatant attempt to ensure a one-sided, unrepresentative government in perpetuity, incorporating nearly all the disadvantages I have outlined above.

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