The introduction of new systems in other UK elections had not been met
with universal approval.
New systems had cost Labour
dearly in the Scottish
Parliament, Welsh Assembly and
European Parliament
The need for electoral reform appeared less pressing once Labour had been
elected under FPTP with a good majority at Westminster.
FPTP appeared to be disadvantaging the Tories more
than Labour. it was said that Labour would win a
clear majority in the Commons, even if the Tories
won an equal share of the popular vote.
It was estimated that if Lord Jenkins' proposal
system (AV+) had been operating in 1997, the
actual Labour majority of 179 would have been
reduced to 60.