Proposed changes to MMP outlined

A number of changes have been proposed to MMP following a comprehensive review into the system. It looked at a number of issues including the 5% and one electorate seat thresholds, the ability to stand in an electorate and be on the party list, and whether a list MP can stand in a by-election.

The size of Parliament and Maori representation was not reviewed, but the Commission did consider any other aspects of the MMP voting system.

The final proposed changes are:

• The one electorate seat threshold for the allocation of list seats should be abolished.
• The party vote threshold for the allocation of list seats should be lowered to 4%.

• Candidates should continue to be able to stand both in an electorate and on a party list at general elections.

• List MPs should continue to be able to contest by-elections.

• Political parties should continue to have responsibility for the composition and ranking of candidates on their party lists.

• The provision for overhang seats should be abolished for parties that do not cross the party vote threshold.

• On the basis of current information it would be prudent to identify 76 electorate seats (in a 120 seat Parliament) as the point at which the risk to proportionality from insufficient list seats becomes unacceptable. New Zealand is unlikely to reach that point before 2026.

• The gradual erosion of lists seats relative to electorate seats risks undermining the diversity of representation in Parliament. Parliament should review this matter.

PDF: Full Proposals Paper

Submissions can be made on the Proposal Paper at mmpreview.org.nz until September 7 and a final report will be presented to the Minister of Justice at the end of October.

What you think about the proposed changes? Tell us what you think and leave a comment below... (note: by leaving a comment you are not making an official submission)