When is the next general election?

The next UK general election must be held no later than August 2029. Parliament automatically dissolves five years after it first met, which was 9 July 2024, and polling day follows 25 working days later. The Prime Minister can call an election earlier by asking the King to dissolve Parliament.

The Dissolution and Calling of Parliament Act 2022 restored the Prime Minister's power to ask the King to dissolve Parliament at any time. It replaced the Fixed-term Parliaments Act 2011, which had set elections every five years unless MPs voted otherwise. If no early election is called, Parliament dissolves automatically at the end of its five-year term. Ministers then decide the date.

The current Parliament first met on 9 July 2024 after Labour won the general election held on 4 July. That means it would automatically dissolve in July 2029, with polling day no later than mid-August 2029. Most Prime Ministers do not wait for the deadline. Elections are usually called after four to five years, often in spring or autumn. Timing is tactical.

A change of Prime Minister does not trigger a general election. Labour chose a new leader in July 2026, who became Prime Minister without a national vote. Opposition parties often call for an early election at such moments, but the decision rests with the Prime Minister. A government that loses a confidence vote may also have to call one. Most governments prefer to choose their own moment.