Write two demerits of proportional representation.
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Answer:
The disadvantages of a PR electoral system
Under FPTP, MPs serve the constituency they campaign in. This makes them more inclined to tackle important local issues.
PR can potentially provide a route for extremists to force their way into the political mainstream: under a FPTP electoral system this would be unlikely to happen.
Some would say that PR produces ‘weak’ coalition governments rather than ‘strong’ majority governments, which arguably can lead to indecision, compromise and even legislative paralysis.
PR can also reduce accountability to voters, as an ousted party of government can retain office by finding new coalition partners after an election.
The adoption of PR list systems weakens the link between the elected representative and his or her constituency.
The greater complexity and choice that PR allows can put voters off voting, by requiring them to have a greater knowledge of individual and party positions.