It seems that Britain needs to have another look at it's " first past the post " system of electing members of parliament. The fact that this election delivered a hung parliament is not good for the country - at a critical time when strong leadership is urgently needed.
Unfortunately whatever reform arises will not suit everyone !
First past the post has it's merits - because it is simple. Tally the votes and whoever gets in excess of half the votes cast gains the seat.
Proportional representation is more complex and takes time to resolve, but it delivers an opinion for those who choose a lesser party. The down side is that if it seats a plethora of smaller party candidates you could end up with a fractured parliament - as is the usual case in both Italy and Israel.
The other question is optional - or a legal requirement to turn out and vote.
Again, both options will have their champions - but if the law requires every eligible citizen to at least put a mark on a ballot paper then there is the presumption that at least they gave the issue some thought.
Which results in the country getting exactly the government the voters deserve !
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