You can also get to know how your political system works by watching the news, reading a newspaper, and paying attention to the key political figures and major issues under discussion. For example, if you are seeking election as an MP in the UK, it’s important to know that each of the 650 constituencies in the UK will select their own individual MP to stand at general elections on a five-year cycle. In the United Kingdom, it is a requirement by law under the Fixed-Term Parliaments Act 2011 that general elections are held every five years. Previously, the Prime Minister of the United Kingdom could call general elections whenever they wished, as many were held on a four-year basis. However, an early election can be held if a two-thirds majority of the House of Commons vote in favour of doing so. The first time this happened was on 18 April 2017, when Theresa May called for a snap general election to be held on Thursday 8 June 2017; where 522 MPs voted in favour of doing so and 13 voted against the motion.
If you want to be a traditional party MP, then you’ll need to start working years in advance. These parties often select their parliamentary candidates very early on and groom them to follow party ideals. For example, in the UK, the three main parties are: the Conservatives, Labour, and the Liberal Democrats.
If you are unsure about joining a party, this is also a great opportunity to get to know an organization without committing for the long-term. Be patient with doing “grunt work” as a volunteer. Try to work your way up the ladder of responsibility, but know that it might take some time.
Roughly 1 in 6 members of the UK Parliament worked as activists or organizers prior to holding office.
There are also more obscure requirements. For example, a parliamentary candidate in the UK cannot be currently involved in any type of bankruptcy proceedings. [8] X Research source
Reach out to party headquarters as soon as you know that you are interested in standing as an MP and they will provide you with additional details regarding how to apply. If your request for approval is denied, you may to reapply at a later date or switch your party affiliation entirely.
For example, some MPs will even take classes to learn the local accent if they aren’t originally from the constituency they’re seeking election at. This makes it easier to communicate with the locals and connect with them.
For example, in the UK, you’ll need to provide a total of ten verified signatures from your constituency. [12] X Research source You’ll also need to provide a monetary deposit in order to reserve your spot as a candidate. For example, in the UK the deposit is £500 and you’ll get it back only after winning over 5% of the vote. [13] X Research source
If you are working with an established party, they will likely provide you with a list of suggested agents.
Solicit donations from wealthy donors, push for small donations across your constituency, and use the funds that you have wisely.
Your party may also ask other MPs to campaign for you. This can boost your election returns if that particular MP is popular with your constituents.
You’ll usually be sworn in prior to taking your place in the Parliament as an MP. During the swearing in ceremony, you’ll also be asked to give an oath of office.
