How MPs are elected
The UK is divided into 650 areas called constituencies. During an election everyone eligible to cast a vote in a constituency selects one candidate to be their MP. The candidate who gets the most votes becomes the MP for that area until the next election.
General elections
At a general election, all constituencies become vacant and a Member of Parliament is elected for each from a list of candidates standing for election. General elections happen every five years.
If an MP dies or retires, a by-election is held in that constituency to find a new MP for that area.
- Find out more: Elections and voting
Parties and candidates
In almost every constituency, the main UK political parties select a candidate to represent them at a general election. Other candidates from smaller parties, or independent candidates with no party connection, may also stand for election. Voters may choose which candidate to vote for based upon their party’s policies or on the candidates’ personal qualities.
To become a candidate representing a political party a person must be officially selected by the party's nominating officer. Each political party has their own candidate selection process.
House of Commons Library research:
MPs are elected to serve for the length of a parliament, up to five years. Find out how an MP leaves office.