A DEBATE about electoral reform will be held in Chippenham tonight as Parliament prepare to tackle the same question. 

The cross-party group Make Votes Matter will be hosting the debate in the Neeld Hall, Chippenham tonight from 7.30pm. 

Chris Evans, Labour MP for Islwyn will be speaking in favour of the current first past the post system, Helen Belcher, Liberal Democrat candidate for Chippenham in 2017, will be speaking in favour of electoral reform. 

Darren Hughes, chief executive of the Electoral Reform Society and New Zealand MP, will also be speaking on the night. 

Make Votes Matter coordinator Issy Willis said: "Many people are fed up with the way politics is carried out in this country and feel that too many MPs and councillors are out of touch. 

"We think the electoral system has a large part to play in that, as once you're elected for a safe seat, you have very little incentive to engage with your electorate."

Various speakers from the Conservative Party have been approached by Make Votes Matter but none have yet confirmed attendance. 

Sarah Richardson added: “A study of the recent election showed that one in five electors across the country voted tactically.

"Voters need to be able to vote for who and what they want, rather than trying to work out how to vote against what they don’t. Too many people are unrepresented.

"It’s time to change that.”

Entrance to the event is free, although Make Votes Matter will be asking for voluntary donations. There will also be an opportunity for audience members to ask questions.