Editing House of Commons of Canada (section)

=== Dissolution of term ===
Except when compelled to request a dissolution by an adverse vote on a confidence issue, the prime minister is allowed to choose the timing of dissolutions, and consequently the timing of general elections. The time chosen reflects political considerations, and is generally most opportune for the prime minister's party. However, no parliamentary term can last for more than five years from the first sitting of Parliament; a dissolution is automatic upon the expiry of this period. Normally, Parliaments do not last for full five-year terms; prime ministers typically ask for dissolutions after about three or four years. In 2006, the [[Premiership of Stephen Harper|Harper government]] introduced a bill to set [[Fixed election dates in Canada#Federal|fixed election dates every four years]], although [[snap election]]s are still permitted. The bill was approved by Parliament and has now become law.

Whatever the reason{{mdash}}the expiry of parliament's term, the choice of the prime minister, or a government defeat in the House of Commons{{mdash}}a dissolution is followed by general elections. If the prime minister's party retains its majority in the House of Commons, then the prime minister may remain in power. On the other hand, if their party has lost its majority, the prime minister may resign or may attempt to retain leadership by winning support from members of other parties. A prime minister may resign even if he or she is not defeated at the polls (for example, for personal health reasons); in such a case, the new leader of the outgoing prime minister's party becomes prime minister.