Effects of the redistribution process on upcoming by-elections and the next general election

Effects of the redistribution process on by-elections

Between general elections, vacant seats in the House of Commons may be filled through by-elections. As part of redistribution, any by-election called before the next general election will take place under the current electoral map (2013 representation order – 338 electoral districts).

Effects of the redistribution process on the next general election

Redistribution may affect the electoral map that is used for the next general election. The length of time between the proclamation of the new representation orders and the call of the general election will determine which electoral map is used.

September 22, 2023 2023 representation orders are proclaimed

Scenario 1

General election is called less than seven months after proclamation.

General election is held under the 2013 representation order.

General election is called less than seven months after the representation orders are proclaimed.

Example (for illustrative purposes only):

If the 2023 representation orders are proclaimed September 22, 2023
and a general election is called before April 22, 2024

Then the general election would take place under the current electoral map (2013 representation order – 338 electoral districts).

Scenario 2

General election is called at least seven months after proclamation.

General election is held under the 2023 representation orders.

General election is called at least seven months after the representation orders are proclaimed.