B.C. sets stage for 2018 referendum on electoral reform
VICTORIA — The stage is being set for a referendum to determine whether British Columbia will use a form of proportional representation to elect its provincial politicians in time for the next election in 2021.
Under legislation introduced Wednesday, the referendum would be held next fall in a mail-in ballot. The proposal would need the support of 50 per cent, plus one, of those who vote in order to be successful.
Premier John Horgan said the province’s current electoral system based on first past the post is unfair. He said he will actively campaign in favour of change.
“I believe you shouldn’t get all of the power with less than 50 per cent of the votes,” Horgan told a news conference before the bill was introduced.