CAMPERS were almost unanimous in rejecting the concept of a single constituency in their response to the referendum held today in Stanley, Thursday November 3.

84% (152 voters) of votes cast in the Camp constituency offered a resounding no vote with only 16% (29 voters) saying yes.

In Stanley the constituency was divided almost equally with 50.2% (255 voters) saying yes and 49.8% (253) saying no.

The strength of feeling on the issue in Camp was reflected in the turnout to vote with 70% making the effort while only 39% of Stanley voters made their mark at the polls.

For a change to be made to Legislative Assembly representation from the current two constituency system to a single constituency, two thirds of Camp and two thirds of Stanley would have had to vote yes. The result means the current system will not be changed as a result of the referendum.

Currently the Stanley constituency has five representatives and the Camp three, however, because this is disproportional in terms of representation the idea for a referendum on the question was decided upon by the Legislative Assembly.

MLA Jan Cheek commented this morning: "The outcome of the referendum, while disappointing for some, was not unexpected.

"We will now look at some of the suggestions for achieving equitable representation for all, including a number of the ideas aired in the lead up to the referendum.  If new proposals emerge they will of course be put out for proper public consultation."