<P> A general election must take place before each parliamentary term begins . Since the maximum term of a parliament is five years , the interval between successive general elections can exceed that period by no more than the combined length of the election campaign and the time for the new parliament to assemble ( a total of typically around four weeks ) . The five years runs from the first meeting of Parliament following the election . </P>
<P> A general election must take place before each parliamentary term begins . Since the maximum term of a parliament is five years , the interval between successive general elections can exceed that period by no more than the combined length of the election campaign and the time for the new parliament to assemble ( a total of typically around four weeks ) . The five years runs from the first meeting of Parliament following the election . </P>
how long can a uk government remain in office before they have to hold a general election
how long can a uk government remain in office before they have to hold a general election
five years
five years