‘Evaluate the view that the increased use of referendums would improve democracy in the UK.’
[30 Marks]
Paragraph One- They’re often held due to democratic pressure
Referendums are sometimes held due to clear pressure from the public, especially when this public
support isn’t represented by support in parliament.
Cameron initially didn't want to hold an in/out EU referendum, joining forces with the Lib Dems and
Labour in October 2011 to defeat Conservative backbenchers who were pressing for a referendum.
He changed his mind in January 2013 as the demand refused to go away, and he began to fear the
possible loss of Conservatives, votes to UKIP if he didn't concede.
By announcing he would hold a referendum if re-elected in 2015, he took the issue off of the agenda
in the ensuing general election and after the election he had to make good on his promise.
Referendums on Scottish and Welsh devolution, where the populations were consulted before.
Counter Argument:
Held to legitimate major government initiatives after they have been decided on.
The 1997 referendums on devolution for Scotland & Wales and in Northern Ireland on the Good
Friday Agreement.
They have also been held to help get the government out of a difficult situation, especially when
they face significant internal disagreement. By handing the decision to the people and insisting
colleagues have to rally behind the popular verdict, the government can maintain its unity.
This can be seen in Harold Wilson’s decision to hold a referendum on European Economic
Community Membership in 1975
They have also been held as a result of a deal between political parties.
Cameron agreed to hold a vote on changing the electoral system for Westminster because there
was a demand of the Lib Dems, as part of the coalition agreement in May 2010.
[30 Marks]
Paragraph One- They’re often held due to democratic pressure
Referendums are sometimes held due to clear pressure from the public, especially when this public
support isn’t represented by support in parliament.
Cameron initially didn't want to hold an in/out EU referendum, joining forces with the Lib Dems and
Labour in October 2011 to defeat Conservative backbenchers who were pressing for a referendum.
He changed his mind in January 2013 as the demand refused to go away, and he began to fear the
possible loss of Conservatives, votes to UKIP if he didn't concede.
By announcing he would hold a referendum if re-elected in 2015, he took the issue off of the agenda
in the ensuing general election and after the election he had to make good on his promise.
Referendums on Scottish and Welsh devolution, where the populations were consulted before.
Counter Argument:
Held to legitimate major government initiatives after they have been decided on.
The 1997 referendums on devolution for Scotland & Wales and in Northern Ireland on the Good
Friday Agreement.
They have also been held to help get the government out of a difficult situation, especially when
they face significant internal disagreement. By handing the decision to the people and insisting
colleagues have to rally behind the popular verdict, the government can maintain its unity.
This can be seen in Harold Wilson’s decision to hold a referendum on European Economic
Community Membership in 1975
They have also been held as a result of a deal between political parties.
Cameron agreed to hold a vote on changing the electoral system for Westminster because there
was a demand of the Lib Dems, as part of the coalition agreement in May 2010.
