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A REFERENDUM on MMP will be held in conjunction with the 2011 election.

The National party promised to have a referendum on MMP (Mixed Member Proportional) by 2011, and Justice Minister Simon Power says they will honour that.

Voters will be asked two questions:

• The first will ask if they wish to change the voting system from MMP.
• The second will ask what alternative voting system they would prefer, choosing from a list of options.

If a majority votes for a change in system, the most popular choice from the second question will be pitted against MMP in a 2014 referendum.

Mr Power says the findings of any 2014 referendum would be binding, and apply to the 2017 election.

By holding the referendum during the 2011 election, Mr Power hopes to get a high voter turnout, “which is important to ensure the legitimacy of the referendum result”.