Mixed Systems

Systems Guide

Mixed Systems

Some electoral systems involve a combination of different ways to obtain a seat in parliament. This usually involves some members being elected in single member constituencies and other members being elected from lists. Often the list element is used to make up for the disproportional outcomes in single member constituency elections. Their advocates claim that they are the ‘best of both worlds’ in having constituencies and proportionality, but the fact that they involve different categories of MP can be a serious drawback.

Types of mixed system

Mixed Member Proportional (MMP), often known as Additional Member System (AMS) as used for the Scottish Parliament, Welsh Assembly and in Germany.

Alternative Vote Plus (AV+) as recommended by the Jenkins Commission in 1998.

Total Representation (TR), a system first discussed as an electoral reform in Israel but which may have wider application

Latest News

AV EDM: Mischief Makers out in force

Published: Tuesday, July 27th 2010

The Electoral Reform Society has criticised 40 Conservative MPs who have signed up to an Early Day Motion (EDM) proposing changing the date of the forthcoming referendum on the Alternative Vote. More...


AV: A Clear Question, a Clear Choice

Published: Thursday, July 22nd 2010

The Electoral Reform Society has welcomed the publication of a clear Yes/No question for the proposed Alternative Vote (AV) referendum. But as the bill heads to parliament the Society has urged members not to play ‘mischief makers’, and to leave the future of the electoral system in the hands of voters. More...


This Illegitimate parliament needs AV

Published: Friday, July 2nd 2010

The Electoral Reform Society has welcomed news that the promised referendum on the Alternative Vote (AV) will be announced next week.  More...