The Fixed-term Parliaments Act 2011 creates a five year period between general elections. Early elections may only be held in specified circumstances. A joint committee has been appointed to undertake a statutory review of the Act and undertake pre-legislative scrutiny of Government proposals to repeal the Act.
Documents to download
-
Appointments to the Chiltern Hundreds and Manor of Northstead Stewardships since 1895 (183 KB, PDF)
-
Supporting documents
Why can’t a Member resign their seat?
Under a Resolution of the House of 2 March 1623, Members of Parliament cannot directly resign their seats. Deaths, disqualification, elevation to Peerage, dissolution or expulsion are the only causes by which a Member’s seat can be vacated. Therefore, a Member wishing to resign has to be appointed to a paid office of the Crown, which automatically disqualifies the Member from holding a seat in the House of Commons.
There are currently two nominal offices of profit under the Crown:
- Crown Steward and Bailiff of the three Chiltern Hundreds of Stoke, Desborough and Burnham
- Crown Steward and Bailiff of the Manor of Northstead
Further information on the current procedure and its historical context can be found in the Commons briefing: Resignation from the House of Commons.
Parliament: facts and figures
This series of publications contains data on various subjects relating to Parliament and Government. Topics include legislation, MPs, select committees, debates, divisions and Parliamentary procedure.
Feedback
Please send any comments or corrections to the Parliament & Constitution Centre. Suggestions for new lists welcomed.
Documents to download
-
Appointments to the Chiltern Hundreds and Manor of Northstead Stewardships since 1895 (183 KB, PDF)
-
Supporting documents
Related posts
-
-
This paper provides details and links for ministerial statements and parliamentary debates (from both Houses of Parliament) that cover international affairs and defence.
-
On 23 June 2020, the House approved the establishment of an Independent Expert Panel to consider cases against MPs raised under the Independent Complaints and Grievance Scheme. On 24 November 2020, it will be asked to approve the eight members of the Independent Expert Panel.
