- Conference
- 2022 National Delegate Conference
- Date
- 3 February 2022
- Decision
- Carried
Westminster’s First Past the Post (FPTP) voting system has created a toxic environment by repeatedly returning extreme governments against the wishes of most voters. In 19 of the last 20 general elections parties to the left of the Conservatives won the popular vote, yet the Tories have governed for two-thirds of that time.
This has enabled soaring inequality, underfunded public services, attacks on trade unions and the undermining of workers’ rights. Our electoral system has heavily contributed to a polarised UK, with a disillusioned and disengaged electorate.
FPTP privileges ‘swing voters’ over neglected voters – including younger, Black and minority ethnic communities. It allows the UK to be governed by an out of touch elite, throwing our democracy into crisis.
Trade union bargaining power tends to be higher in countries that use Proportional Representation. In the UK successive right wing governments have been able to water down trade union rights, empowered by a voting system that advantages the Tory party.
Countries that use PR tend to return more progressive governments than those with FPTP. We need PR to bring in lasting policies to help end inequality, defend rights in the workplace, protect our public services and create a better society for all. To give everyone a real voice in a 21st century democracy, we must change the voting system.
Conference resolves:
1)To reject First Past the Post and support the introduction of a form of Proportional Representation for UK general elections, in which all votes count and seats match votes;
2)To call on the National Executive Council to campaign for this policy within the wider trade union and labour movement;
3)To commit to a programme of education to provide information to UNISON members about how democratic reform, including electoral system change, can support progressive politics and a more democratic society.