What are the key dates in the upcoming general election?

For the first time since 1923, the British public will be heading to the polls in a December general election, after MPs backed Boris Johnson's government last-ditch bid for an early vote.

Bypassing the Fixed Term Parliament Act, the Bill outlines that the UK's next general election will be held on 12 December 2019.

So when will parliament be dissolved? - 6 November

Boris Johnson has already made clear that if the election takes place on 12 December, then MPs would have their last day in the Commons on Tuesday 5 November.

Parliament must be dissolved 25 working days before a general election, triggering the official start of the campaign. It also kicks off the period known in Whitehall as "purdah" – the convention that the government does not make any major policy announcements or significant commitments during the campaign.

When parliament is dissolved, MPs also lose their titles and are no longer entitled to use facilities in the House of Commons as their parliamentary seats become vacant.

Election of Speaker - after election

John Bercow, the Commons speaker, has already announced his decision to step down by 31 October. He is now likely to stay on for a few extra days, until the dissolution of parliament, with a election for the speaker taking place after the general election.

Manifesto launches - week of 18 November

Dates are yet to be established for each parties launch of their manifesto, but they are likely to be released in the week of 18 November.

Registration deadline - 25 November

Monday 25 November will be the deadline for voter registration in the 2019 general election, and the deadline to apply for a postal vote would be Tuesday 26 November.

Nato Summit 3-4 December

The UK has already agreed to hold the summit of allied leaders in central London to mark NATO's 70th anniversary. On the list of attendees is the US president Donald Trump.

Election Day - 12 December

On Thursday 12 December, the British public will head to polling booths across the country to decide the country's fate. Polls typically close at 10pm, after which the results of the general election exit poll will be released.

When will parliament return?

A written statement to the House of Commons from Boris Johnson earlier this week made clear the new crop of MPs would have their first session before the 23 December.