In a proportional‑representation election using the D'Hondt method to allocate 12 seats, four parties receive the following numbers of votes:

- Party X: $48{,}000$ votes
- Party Y: $30{,}000$ votes
- Party Z: $20{,}000$ votes
- Party W: $10{,}000$ votes

(a) Determine how many seats each party obtains under the D'Hondt allocation.

(b) If an electoral threshold of 12 % of the total votes is introduced (parties below the threshold are excluded), recalculate the seat distribution.

Which party, if any, gains an additional seat because of the threshold?

Question

In a proportional‑representation election using the D'Hondt method to allocate 12 seats, four parties receive the following numbers of votes:

- Party X: $48{,}000$ votes
- Party Y: $30{,}000$ votes
- Party Z: $20{,}000$ votes
- Party W: $10{,}000$ votes

(a) Determine how many seats each party obtains under the D'Hondt allocation.

(b) If an electoral threshold of 12 % of the total votes is introduced (parties below the threshold are excluded), recalculate the seat distribution.

Which party, if any, gains an additional seat because of the threshold?

Accepted Answer

Before threshold: X 5, Y 4, Z 2, W 1. After threshold: X 6, Y 4, Z 2. Party X gains one seat.

Gce Model Questions Vol1 2017 Government Question 31