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Press Release

GMB and the alternative vote

5 August 2010

GMB likely to campaign for no vote if referendum on alternative vote system for general election takes place next year

GMB has long held the policy that tried and tested first passed the post is the system that should be used for general elections

GMB has set out the position the union will adopt if and when Parliament legislates that a referendum should be held on 5th May 2011 on the introduction of alternative voting in forthcoming general elections for Parliament at Westminster.

Paul Kenny GMB General Secretary said "GMB is likely to play an active role in opposing the alternative vote in a referendum if one takes place next year in line with the union's longstanding policy on the issue.

GMB has long held the policy that first passed the post is the system that should be used for general elections. After the Jenkins Report the union looked again at the issue and concluded that first passed the post is a tried and tested system which delivers strong single Party Government and that it is simple and easy to understand and with it there is a strong constituency link.

GMB is likely to campaign within the union and with the public to retain this electoral system if there is a referendum. We are likely to join with others who opposes the change but we will not be going into bed with everybody who opposes changes in the voting system".



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