Key dates in UK election timeline

April 6th-8th: Parliament finishes essential business in what is known as the "wash-up" session before members head for constituencies…

April 6th-8th: Parliament finishes essential business in what is known as the "wash-up" session before members head for constituencies to campaign or head into retirement. Around 150 members of parliament are not standing for re-election.

April 8th: Bank of England decision on interest rates due, as well as data on manufacturing and industrial output. Analysts expect rates to be kept at a record low of 0.5 per cent, but the data will be closely watched for signs of economic recovery, a central campaign issue.

April 8th: Latest Ipsos MORI poll of marginal seats to be published.

April 12th: Parliament will be dissolved. Dissolution marks the start of period during which ministers and civil servants must follow guidelines to ensure they do not use their position for party political advantage before the ballot.

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April 15th: The first of three televised debates between Prime Minister Gordon Brown, Conservative leader David Cameron and Nick Clegg, leader of the Liberal Democrats. The debate will be aired on Britain's ITV1 channel and focus on domestic affairs.

April 22nd: Sky News to host second TV debate by heads of the main parties. The theme is expected to be foreign affairs.

April 29th: The final televised debate between main party leaders, hosted by the BBC. The main theme will be the economy.

May 6th: Polling day. Polls close at 9pm, and exit polls will give first indication of outcome.

May 7th: Declaration of election results from 650 constituencies. Some constituencies are likely to forego the traditional overnight count on cost grounds, meaning results will come later in the day.

May 18th: Parliament will reconvene. Parliament normally holds its first session six days after an election, but this period has been extended to allow new MPs more time to prepare for parliamentary service.

Reuters