What is the 'First Past The Post' voting system?

The British elect their leaders with the First past the post
The British elect their leaders with the first past the post

British electionsare decided using what is known as the First Past the Post (abbreviated FPTP, 1stP, 1PTP or FPP) voting system. Here's a quick guide.

How does voting work?

The candidate with the most votes in each constituency wins and becomes the MP for that seat. All other votes are disregarded.

Where is it used?

It is used in the UK to elect members of the House of Commons, both chambers of the US Congress and the lower houses in India and Canada as well as other place that used to be British colonies. It is the second most popular voting system in the world.

Countries which use a first-past-the-post voting system

Advantages of First Past The Post

  • It is easy to understand
  • It can be quick to count the votes and declare a winner
  • Voters can express...

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