What system is implemented to elect Members of Parliament (MPs)?

The UK uses a system called "First Past the Post" to elect Members of Parliament, or MPs. Think of it like a horse race – the horse that crosses the finish line first wins, regardless of how far ahead they are. In each of the UK's constituencies, voters choose one candidate. The candidate who receives the most votes in that constituency wins and becomes the MP for that area. It doesn't matter if they get more than half the votes, just more than anyone else. This system has been in place for a long time and is known for usually producing a clear winner, making it easier to form a government. Other systems, like proportional representation, aim to give parties seats in parliament that reflect their overall share of the national vote. While that might seem fairer to some, it can also lead to coalition governments and political instability, which is something the First Past the Post system tends to avoid. So, while other systems exist, the UK uses First Past the Post for electing MPs.