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Editor's factfile: Monday April 11
What is the dissolution of parliament?
Parliament is dissolved today. Essentially this means that this 'parliament' ceases to be. The building still sits by the Thames, but the people, those who make democracy happen, are no longer parliamentarians
Wait for this though, MPs cease to be MPs, although peers are still peers - they just do not have the forum in which to operate. We have to live without them in this capacity until the next parliament.
Ministers remain as ministers of the crown despite the fact that there are no MPs to hold them to account for the period.
During the period of the dissolution ex-members, even if standing for re-election, are not allowed to enter the Palace of Westminster or use any of its facilities. But, they continue to be paid up until polling day - as do their staff.
Dissolution is a funny affair. The prime minister asks the Queen to dissolve parliament, because the power to do so rests with her as head of state.
A parliament can last a maximum of five years, although we are now in what is generally accepted as a four-year election cycle.
Prime ministers who are elected with small, or no, majorities can, however, ask the Queen to dissolve parliament within months of their election.
This allows them to seek a more conclusive response from the country - as Harold Wilson did in October 1974 following the February election which resulted in a hung parliament.
Parliament is dissolved by Royal Proclamation - requiring what are known as 'writs to summon a new parliament' to be sent out. At this point the general election timetable comes into effect.
The election runs for 18 days starting with the dissolution of the old parliament, and the issue of writs on 'day zero'.
The process ends on day 17, which is election day. Remember, for the purposes of this timetable, weekends and public holidays are disregarded.
Therefore, as is the prime minister's wish by the Queen's consent, the election will be held on May 5.
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