The lead-up to the 1993 referendum on the electoral system was a time of intense debate, characterised in the media as conflict between two opposing "sides". I was dissatisfied with the available information, so I obtained a copy of the report of the Royal Commission on the Electoral System (1986), which had recommended Mixed-Member Proportional representation (MMP) for New Zealand.

Impressed by the thoroughness and clarity of the Commission's reasoning, I agreed with its decision to recommend MMP. However I realised most New Zealanders wouldn't have access to the full report or the time to read it - so I published this booklet summarising the Commission's comparison of FPP and MMP.

Approximately 5,000 copies were sold. The referendum was won by 54% to 46%, and I hope the booklet contributed in to that very narrow victory for proportional representation.

I have republished it online because it is apparently still used by students as a "crib" for the Royal Commission's report.

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