What is the difference between an election and a referendum? (5 marks)

In 5 mark questions, you only need to make 3 points. However, below are all the points that you could make, some with examples.

Elections are held at specific intervals. In the UK this is every 5 years. Referendums can be held at any time, and in the UK are held rarely, over large (normally constitutional) issues.

An election is to elect representatives and leaders, whereas referendums involve a single question over a specific issue

The result of elections is binding, whilst in the UK referendums are advisory rather than binding on parliament.

Whilst the result of an election can be complex, the result of a referendum is a simple yes or no. For example, the 2010 election did not give a clear result as to the structure of Parliament as a coalition was formed. In contrast, the 2016 election on the continuation of the UK's membership in the European Union gave a simple answer - no.