| "Please see attached observations, where it will be
noted that the Council is generally happy with electoral
arrangements as they stand, but is concerned at the relatively
low turn-out experienced at elections over the past years. |
| It is our contention that more people will turn out
once every 4 years, and consequently, all local and Assembly
elections should be held on the same day". |
| "1. There is no reason for any change in the current
system of election which appears to be eminently fair,
easily understood and transparent. The ratio of constituency
to list seats seems perfectly reasonable and should not
change. |
| Even if there should be enhanced powers for the National
Assembly (which would be most welcome) there is no need
to increase the number of representatives. 60 is a perfectly
adequate body and part of their responsibility is to ensure
that they adequately and properly cover the required work
(whatever that may be). |
| The only exception to the point above would be if there
were changes in the individual constituencies such that
there was a need to increase the number of constituency
members. |
| The much greater concern (which is sadly not included
in the questions for consultation) is the low level of
voter turn out. Low voter turnout means a lack of legitimacy
(including a lack of legitimacy of whatever electoral
system is used). |
| Consideration must, therefore, be given to efforts to
increase voter participation. On the basis that elections
in the European Parliament, to County Councils and to
Town and Community Councils all suffer from low turnout,
a suggestion is to hold as many elections as possible
on the same day. There is no reason at all why there should
not be votes on the same day every four years for the
National Assembly, County Councils and Town and Community
Councils. Such an event would not only enhance turn out,
it would also enthuse the voting public. The timetables
of the latter should be adjusted to the timetable of the
senior body, the National Assembly. |
|
B J Gooch, ar ran Cyngor Cymuned Ferwig
|
