The removal or death of a PM should trigger a general election

We call on the Government to introduce legislation which would mandate a general election if a Prime Minister is removed or resigns from post, or if the Prime Minister dies.

The United Kingdom operates under a system of parliamentary democracy. In a general election, the public does not vote directly for a Prime Minister; instead, voters elect an individual Member of Parliament (MP) to represent their local constituency in the House of Commons.

Following that general election, the Government is usually formed by the political party or parties with the most seats in the House of Commons. The Prime Minister is appointed by the Sovereign as the person best able to command the confidence of the House of Commons.

When a Prime Minister resigns, is removed by their party or passes away in office, the Sovereign invites the person who is best able to command the confidence of the House of Commons to succeed them. Usually, that person will be clear as they will have been chosen as the leader of the governing party through their own internal processes. There is no requirement to hold a general election in these circumstances, and it is assumed that the new Prime Minister commands the confidence of the House, unless and until they lose a vote on a matter of confidence. Automatically triggering a general election during a time of sudden transition, such as the unexpected death or incapacitation of a Prime Minister, could create political and economic instability at a moment when the country requires continuity and steady leadership.

In addition, under the Dissolution and Calling of Parliament Act 2022, the maximum term of a Parliament is five years. This ensures regular opportunities for the public to exercise their democratic rights and choose which MPs and which parties should represent them.

These arrangements provide a vital balance of democratic accountability and executive stability. For these reasons, the Government believes the existing constitutional framework remains appropriate and does not plan to change it.

Cabinet Office