I fully support First Past the Post (FPTP), but I do not agree with the views raised on Proportional Representation. FPTP is a tried-and-tested system that ensures stability and clear governance. It prevents disproportionate influence by minority parties with minimal public support who typically end up holding the balance of power in Proportional Representation (PR) systems.

The British people were clear on this matter in a referendum on voting systems in 2011. FPTP is well established and understood by voters. It provides a clear and robust way of electing Members of Parliament and there is an unambiguous link between constituents and their representatives in Westminster.

For the most part, FPTP produces governments with working majorities in Parliament. This leads to efficient and effective decision-making. FPTP also allows for the formation of a strong opposition party that can provide a check on the power of the government of the day. I believe that alternative systems are less transparent, more complicated and less likely to lead to effective government.

The Conservative Party manifesto 2019 promised to continue supporting the First Past the Post (FPTP) system of voting. I believe that FPTP provides for a clear and transparent electoral process, allowing voters to remove politicians who fail to deliver. The Government has introduced powers to change the voting systems for all Combined Authority Mayors, the Mayor of London and the Police and Crime Commissioners. Transferable voting systems were rejected by the British people in the past including in a referendum in 2011. I fully support these changes.

I am aware that, during the passage of the Elections Act, there were calls to introduce a citizens’ assembly to consider electoral policy. However, I would like to point out that the United Kingdom already has a citizens’ assembly – in the form of the House of Commons – which is made up of public representatives, directly selected by the British people, in every part of the country.

For these reasons I do not believe that a citizens' assembly on electoral reform or a change to our electoral system is necessary.