Ministers propose voting changes for mayoral elections in English devolution bill
Briefly

A new voting system for mayoral elections will be implemented, transitioning from first-past-the-post to a preferential model. This change aims to prevent Reform politicians from easily dominating regions like Lincolnshire and Hull. The adjustments are part of a broader devolution bill aimed at restructuring local government by merging various councils into unitary strategic authorities. Evidence suggests that the prior system favored Conservative candidates, leading to calls for a more equitable electoral process, as well as better voter representation and confidence in local governance.
Ministers are changing the voting system for mayoral elections, moving to a preferential system to ensure candidates have broader support rather than first-past-the-post.
The changes reverse a 2022 decision that favored the Conservatives, aiming to address concerns over undue advantages in the political landscape for right-leaning parties.
The Electoral Reform Society emphasizes that the new supplementary voting system raises the bar for politicians, requiring them to secure broad voter backing to succeed.
Read at www.theguardian.com
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