Campaigning and the AV referendum

Submitted by Steve Lee on Wed, 13/04/2011 - 14:53

I was intersted to read in Third Sector that Titus Alexander of Democaracy matters had complained to David Blunkett that the 'No' campaign had acted to prevent charities taking a full part in the AV debate. Blunkett responds that he is actually in favour of charities being involved. (http://www.thirdsector.co.uk/news/Article/1064806/David-Blunkett-backs-charity-campaigning-AV-referendum/)

Whilst is seems obvious to me that charities focussed on democracy and citizenship should be involved in the debate, it did make me wonder how difficult it must be for them not to appear to be taking a position? To be fair Titus Alexander is clear that Democracy Matters have not endorsed the 'Yes' campaign, but he does strongly argue that it is right for charities to take either position and advocate for it if they so wish. (http://www.democracymatters.info/news/27-DM_and_the_AV_referendum_news.html)

Without having though this through fully, I'm a little concerned about this in terms of accountability.

What do forum mebers think about this?

I also wondered whether you felt that the nature of campaigning would be altered by an AV system. If MP's 'have to work harder for our votes' then will campaigning be a more powerful tool? Would it open the door to greater influence by minority or fringe interests?

I haven't decided how I'll vote yet, so your opinions would be of rela help as well as interest.

Submitted by Ali Goldsworthy on Tue, 19/04/2011 - 11:36.

nteresting questions. Of course we've already got a few different electoral systems in the UK. I tend to think the principles of good campaigning and influencing tend to apply in all of them, make a well constructed credible argument, which is relevant to people and grab the opportunity. We have AMS here in Wales for the assembly, with regional top ups alongside constituency members. There is a small tendency for constituency members to be seen as having more clout, though I think that is changing. It's also meant that regional members have taken up issues that go across several constituencies.

What I think AV offers is a couple of things to be aware of as campaigners is that Candidates will need to think beyond their normal vote as winning is going to involve talking to new/different supporters - hence the work harder for your vote situation. This offers a real opportunity for campaigners to show how their vote will be effected by a particular issue - if they win on May 5th I;'d be building that straight into my strategic planning.

Submitted by Ade Fashade on Tue, 03/05/2011 - 10:44.

I have to say I remain unconvinced as to whether AV or no AV will make any real difference to the influence the sector may have in terms of campaigning, hence, I am not sure which way to go on this. I do, however, think the fact that a referendum on how we elect our representatives is taking place is an opportunity in itself to continually remind politicians of their responsibilities to our service users and beneficiaries. The danger is always that politicians are generally signed up to 'toe the party line', and I feel this will not change either way. But we do need to be smarter and continue to improve in ensuring the principles and need for campaigning is placed high on the democratic agenda, especially at local level, where our elected councilliors, should take more responsibility and be more accountable in representating the social and economic needs of local people. We know that our councillors are generally 'elected' on much fewer votes on the current system of voting. Perhaps this referendum will serve as a challenge to them and help raise awareness of the need for more focused local and grassroots campaigns.

Submitted by Amelia on Mon, 16/05/2011 - 12:55.

Not on the subject of how a voting system could affect campaigning but I've just spotted this blog from Tom Baker on his blog the Thoughtful campaigner Five lessons to learn from the AV campaign.

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