Component 1: UK politics and core political ideas

Read the source below (extract written for this paper). Supporters of first-past-the-post argue that it produces strong, stable single-party governments and a clear link between MPs and constituencies. Critics point out that in 2024 Labour won about 63% of seats with around 34% of the vote, while Reform UK won over 14% of votes but only a handful of seats. They argue that proportional systems used in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland show that coalition government can work. Using the source, evaluate the view that first-past-the-post should be replaced for UK general elections. In your response you must compare the different opinions in the source, consider this view and the alternative to this view in a balanced way, and use knowledge and understanding to help you analyse and evaluate.

Evaluate the extent to which the UK suffers from a participation crisis. You must consider this view and the alternative to this view in a balanced way.

To what extent do socialists agree on the role of the state? You must use appropriate thinkers you have studied to support your answer and consider any differing views in a balanced way.