Shirley Williams writes… Why Vote Yes – For a system fit for purpose

Let me start by stating an undisputable truth; we live in a pluralistic society. Governments have recognised this in delivering our public services and in fostering multiculturalism. However, when it comes to how we vote for our politicians, we have been stuck with first past the post, and left with the patronisingly simple option of submitting a single cross.

Experts of voting behaviour in the past would have explained voting outcomes through 'class'. Nearly everybody voted either Labour or Conservative. For example, during every election of the 1950s, at least 90% voted for the two main parties. Now barely two-thirds do. 'Class', thank goodness, is not what it used to be; it was only suitable in an era when society carved itself up into simple sectors: rich or poor, left or right. First past the post ignores the fact that in this modern age people define themselves in a multitude of ways. Put simply, the system is no longer fit for purpose.

The choice available to the public has been widened with the emergence of new parties, as well as some notable independents. Under the alternative vote, people will be able to exercise the choice available to them without wasting their votes. At the last election, most people ended up with MPs they didn't vote for, who represented a minority of votes. Under AV, candidates will need to reach out to their entire electorate to ensure they are approved by the majority of their constituents.

This has to be a good thing at a time when trust in politicians is at an all-time low. I travelled to every corner of England during the last election campaign, and I was struck by the anger people felt towards the Westminster elite. People need a system which encourages greater legitimacy in the eyes of the people. This will also strengthen the influence of Parliament over the executive.

Electoral reform also means we will see a reduction of 'safe seats'. We see too many constituencies where votes are taken for granted. It leads to arrogance on the part of the parties, and a consequent disengagement by the public. The whole point of politics is to serve the people, and the current system, now so obsolete, fails to encourage that public spirit.

Australia has employed AV as its method of choosing politicians successfully. We need it too if we want our political system to reflect the true wishes of our people.