Thanks to our supporters we’ve recruited a new Lakeman FellowWe are delighted to announce that we recently appointed a new Lakeman Fellow to join the ERS team. The Lakeman Fellowship for Diversity in Politics is a scheme we set up in 2018, as a unique work...Posted 21 Jan 2022
How are Prime Ministers chosen around the world?With pressure mounting on Boris Johnson, it’s looking increasingly possible that Britain could well soon have a new Prime Minister. Who it would be, would be a decision for Conservative MPs and, possibly, Conservative party...Posted 19 Jan 2022
Now it’s over to the Lords to prevent the government’s assault on democracyYesterday was a dark day for democracy. Despite widespread opposition from campaigners, election experts, academics and civil society the government’s Elections Bill successfully passed through the commons. The Bill includes clauses introducing voter ID, more...Posted 18 Jan 2022
On Monday MPs have a chance to pass an election bill that actually worksOpposition MPs have tabled amendments on reforming our voting system that would improve our elections for voters across the country. On Monday the government’s elections bill returns to the House of Commons. Along with other...Posted 14 Jan 2022
The government should stop and re-think the 2022 Elections Bill as it returns to the CommonsThe government’s Elections Bill returns to the House of Commons on Monday 17th January despite the opposition against their plans growing from all sides of the chamber. The bill has faced fierce opposition from campaigners,...Posted 14 Jan 2022
Not what it says on the tin: 8 political parties that could do with a name changeThere are some parties you come across where there is a total disconnect between the name and the party. Names that are so counter-intuitive or perplexing that you can only wonder why they haven’t changed...Posted 10 Jan 2022
How are Presidents elected around Europe?2022 is a big year for presidential elections in Europe – with the Italian, German and French presidencies all open over the next few months.Posted 05 Jan 2022
As Portugal heads to the polls – how do Portuguese elections work?Portugal is holding a snap election at the end of the month after parliament rejected the budget proposed by António Costa’s government last autumn.Posted 04 Jan 2022
Even senior MPs agree the government needs to pause and rethink the 2022 Elections BillEarlier this week, the House of Commons Public Administration and Constitutional Affairs (PACAC) select committee published the final report of its inquiry into the Elections Bill. In a highly critical report, the influential committee heeded...Posted 17 Dec 2021
Does First Past the Post stop extremists getting into parliaments?If you listen to supporters of first past the post, you might be forgiven for thinking that British voters are just itching to elect dozens of far-left and far-right MPs - with PR just waiting...Posted 15 Dec 2021