TSR Wiki > Study Help > Subjects and Revision > Revision Notes > History > The Ballot Act 1872, The corrupt and Illegal Practices Act 1883, Representation of the People Act 1884
The Ballot Act 1872
While the Second Reform Act gradually moved the nation closer to Democracy, the electoral system still had to free itself from bribery and corruption. The chartists demanded a ballot to replace the tradition of public declaration, but it was not until the late 1860s a more democratic method was introduced.
Effects of the Ballot Act
- Once voting was done in secret, intimidation declined
- But it also has to be remembered that corruption was not totally eradicated
The corrupt and Illegal Practices Act 1883
This piece of legislation covered the gaps in the Ballot Act of 1872 by establishing what campaign money could be spent on. The election agents had to account for their spending. A detailed definition of illegal and corrupt practices. The Act also imposed harsh penalties on people who indulged in such behaviour.
Representation of the People Act 1884
The Act expanded the franchise by 50%. The electorate was now increased from 2.5 million to 5 million. Although this Act greatly widened the electorate it did not give Britain the democracy it yearned for, men did not have total enfranchisement and women did not have a parliamentary voice as no women had the franchise.
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