Consider the following about the proportional representation system of...
The correct answer is option A, which states that only statements 1 and 2 are correct.
Explanation:
1. The entire country may be a single constituency in this system:
Under the proportional representation system, it is possible for the entire country to be considered as a single constituency. This means that all candidates from different parties compete for seats at the national level. The number of seats a party receives is proportional to the number of votes it receives nationwide.
2. Multi-member constituencies may be present:
In addition to the option of having a single constituency for the entire country, proportional representation also allows for the presence of multi-member constituencies. This means that instead of dividing the country into multiple smaller constituencies, several seats are allocated to a larger constituency. Voters can then cast their votes for individual candidates or for a political party, and the seats are distributed based on the proportion of votes received.
3. A party may get more seats than votes in the legislature:
Statement 3 is incorrect. Under the proportional representation system, a party cannot get more seats than votes in the legislature. The allocation of seats is directly proportional to the number of votes received by each party. This ensures a fair representation of the electorate's preferences in the legislature. However, it is possible for a party to receive fewer seats than votes if the proportion of votes it receives is not high enough to secure a significant number of seats.
In conclusion, the correct answer is option A, as statements 1 and 2 accurately describe features of the proportional representation system, while statement 3 is incorrect.
Consider the following about the proportional representation system of...
- Proportional representation is a type of electoral system that decides the make-up of a parliament by allocating seats on the basis of the number of votes each party received. Although there are many different types of PR, this is the base requirement for a system to be described as proportional.
- Rather than the winner-take all approach of other systems, PR ensures that votes carry equal weight. To do this, multi-member constituencies are used. This means that a single area elects more than one representative. The size of this area can vary according to the system, ranging from the size of the whole country to a county or local vicinity.