What is a referendum?

A referendum is a vote in which the whole electorate decides a single question directly, rather than leaving it to elected representatives. UK referendums are usually advisory in law, but governments treat them as politically binding. Famous examples include the 2014 Scottish independence vote and the 2016 vote to leave the EU.

The UK has held three UK-wide referendums. They were on the European Community in 1975, the alternative vote in 2011 and EU membership in 2016. Many more have been held in parts of the UK. Examples include devolution for Scotland and Wales in 1997 and the Good Friday Agreement in 1998.

Parliament must pass a law to hold a referendum and set the question, the date and who can vote. The Electoral Commission checks the question is clear and regulates spending. There is no rule that a set turnout or majority is needed, unless the law says so. Spending limits apply to campaign groups, and designated lead campaigns on each side can receive some public support, such as free mailings.

Constitutional rules matter. The Supreme Court ruled in 2022 that the Scottish Parliament cannot hold an independence referendum without Westminster's consent. In Northern Ireland, the Secretary of State must call a border poll if it seems likely a majority would vote to join Ireland. Supporters see referendums as pure democracy. Critics say complex issues get squeezed into a simple yes or no.