Public’s views sought on changes to scottish electoral system

Voters are being asked their views on changes to the electoral system that could include extending the franchise and electronic voting.

The Scottish Government is seeking opinions on the way in which MSPs and local councillors are elected.

Ministers are considering introducing “innovative” voting methods, with electronic voting machines and internet or mobile phone voting suggested.

The consultation proposes extending the franchise in Scottish Parliament and local government elections to include everyone legally resident in Scotland.

Another issue under consideration is changing the order in which candidates’ names appear on the ballot paper at local government elections to improve fairness.

The consultation notes that the current system, under which names are listed alphabetically by surname, could discriminate against those further down the paper and puts forward alternative options such as the randomisation or rotation of names.

Views are also being sought on supporting gender balance among elected officials and on the term length for the Scottish Parliament and local government.

Parliamentary Business Minister Joe Fitz Patrick said: “We already have electronic counting for local government elections – is it the time to introduce electronic voting?

“Could this make voting more inclusive and increase turnout?

“Next year is the centenary of women’s suffrage, yet only 35% of MSPs and 29% of councillors are women.

“It is fair to say that elected representatives do not reflect Scottish society.”

“Scotland has led the way internationally by lowering the voting age to 16.

“We now seek to extend the opportunity to vote to all who are legally resident in Scotland.

“It seems only fair that those who have the right to live here, whether from EU countries or elsewhere, have the right to vote.”

The consultation runs until March 12.