UK A-Levels Politics Practice Exam

What can be said about the trend in UK elections since 1959?

1. Voter turnout has steadily increased

2. Political engagement has remained constant

3. There has been a decline in turnout

4. Only young voters are participating more

The correct answer is: There has been a decline in turnout

The trend observed in UK elections since 1959 indicates a decline in voter turnout, particularly notable from the 1990s onward. This decrease highlights a growing disengagement among the electorate, which can be attributed to various factors, such as dissatisfaction with political parties, a perception that individual votes carry less weight, and an overall decline in political engagement across different age groups. While there have been moments of increased turnout, particularly during significant elections, the overarching trend shows that fewer people are participating in the electoral process as time goes on. This prolonged decline can be alarming for democracy, as lower turnout can lead to questions about the legitimacy of elected representatives and governance. In contrast to this, the other options suggest either a steady increase in voter engagement or a false assumption that only younger voters are participating more. However, data indicates that while young voters may show fluctuations in their engagement, it does not compensate for the overall downward trend in turnout across all demographics.