“Much as we welcome the Prime Minister’s initiative, a change in our electoral system from first-past-the-post to the Alternative Vote would be a very minor reform.
 
“The Alternative Vote would not guarantee us a more representative parliament and would do little to improve the accountability of politicians after the expenses debacle of 2009. If we are to have a referendum, it should offer voters an opportunity to make real and effective changes.
 
“STV is the one system that would give us better representation and at the same time empower voters but allowing them a wider choice, including the choice between candidates of the same party. STV has the potential to change the nature of our politics for the better, and we therefore hope that MPs of all parties will give this amendment their support.”