Paper 1 · 2024 · 30 marks
Using the source, evaluate the view that referendums since 1997 have not supported democracy but have been used for other political purposes.
Democracy & Participation
Source
The following two paragraphs give two sides of a contested debate considering whether referendums since 1997 have promoted democracy or instead have really served other political purposes.
The case for referendums promoting democracy
Referendums since 1997 have had a positive impact on political life and widened democracy. They have given a definitive answer on contested topics shaping the direction that the UK takes, be that devolution, membership of the EU or the rejection of alternative voting systems. Referendums add legitimacy to major constitutional changes. In Scotland 16- and 17-year-olds voted making choices about the future in referendums, thus widening participation. They have re-invigorated political life and opened up honest debate with their high turnouts and renewed activity in current events. They are a source of political education that engage the public and are a true injection of direct democracy.
The claims against the use of referendums
Referendums have been held for the benefit of the governing political parties, often settling their internal disputes, never for public benefit. New Labour liked to be popular and a series of 'yes' votes added to the idea of popularity. New Labour wanted to ensure its dominance in Scotland where it drew a large number of seats. New Labour later tired of referendums. The Conservatives agreed to a referendum on voting reform - not much of a choice as the vote was not about proportional representation. In reality, the referendum was a price to pay for the support of the Liberal Democrats to enter the coalition. Then the EU referendum. This was not a democratic move for the people of the UK. The referendum was an outright attempt by the Conservative Party to stop UKIP in its tracks. In the end it was a battle fought over false claims. Such a close result as the one on the EU has limited legitimacy. A leading Brexiteer, Steve Baker, accepts that major referendums should require 60% approval to be effective and valid.
Mark scheme: agreement
AO1: Referendums manipulated and created to benefit the party in office.
AO2: In reality referendums have been abused by political parties when in government to advance their own political interests.
AO3: we can conclude that referendums are not used to support democracy but a way to advance parties' political interests.
AO1: The 2011 AV referendum was never fit for purpose or meaningful.
AO2: The Conservatives have used referendums for their own benefit. The 2011 AV referendum was the price to pay to the Liberal Democrats in coalition. This was a safe choice for the Conservatives.
AO3: we can conclude that referendums are not used to support democracy but a way to advance parties' political interests.
AO1: The damage caused by the EU referendum is still being felt in the UKs political system. It was held to thwart UKIP.
AO2: The EU referendum was born out of a fear of the popularity of anti-EU sentiment to which UKIP was riding high on and had to be stopped for fear of costing the Conservatives seats in the next general election.
AO3: We can conclude that far from being a tool of democracy referendums for the Conservatives have been devices to ensure their survival and prosperity.
AO1: Parties use referendums to gain/maintain popularity.
AO2: Referendums are used by governments to maintain or gain popularity with certain groups, like devolution in Scotland, rather than to enhance democracy. They wanted to ensure their dominance in Scotland.
AO3: Therefore it is clear that referendums are used for other political purposes.
Mark scheme: disagreement
AO1: Referendums widen democracy by involving citizens in democracy.
AO2: Referendums ignite political interest and political activity. The inclusion of 16–18-year-olds in Scotland broadened democracy.
AO3: We can conclude they are a method which increases active participation, and this is good for democracy.
AO1: They provide clear answers to certain difficult political questions.
AO2: At times there are major choices which face a country, and a referendum is the easiest way to resolve this.
AO3: We can reach a verdict that decisions such as EU membership and Scottish independence fit this mode.
AO1: They provide legitimacy which is seen as public approval of political changes.
AO2: Referendum provide legitimacy for major political decisions which have a long-term impact on the direction of the country.
AO3: It is a fair conclusion that such decisions are made by the people rather than politicians.
AO1: They create public interest in political topics and serve to educate voters.
AO2: Referendums serve to get the public involved in political life and are an opportunity to engage between elections. They also enhance the political understanding and education of the electorate.
AO3: We arrive at a verdict that referendums act to renew democratic legitimacy and address the participation crisis.