LONDON (AP) Britains five-week election campaign officially began today, when Parliament was dissolved ahead of the Dec. 12 vote. Heres a look at some key numbers in an election that could determine not only who governs Britain, but when, how or even whether the country leaves the European Union:
46 million: The number of eligible voters in the U.K.
650: The number of seats in the House of Commons, all up for grabs in the election. Any party that wins a majority or becomes the largest party, even without a majority can form a government, with its leader as prime minister.
298: The number of seats held before the election by Prime Minister Boris Johnsons ruling Conservatives more than 20 short of a majority. The governments lack of a majority meant it struggled to pass key measures needed for Britain to leave the European Union.
243: The number of seats held by the left-of-center opposition Labour Party, which is battling to return to office for the first time since 2010. Labour plans to downplay Brexit and focus on health care, education and social welfare, which all saw funding cuts under Conservative governments.
96: The number of years since Britain last had a December election. British elections are usually held in the late spring, when the weather is better and the days are longer.
86: The number of days until Britain is due to leave the EU. Brexit day was supposed to be Oct. 31, but with Britains politicians deadlocked, the EU granted a three-month delay until Jan. 31.
More than 60: The number of lawmakers not running for re-election amid Britains toxic political atmosphere. Politicians on both sides of the Brexit argument have received abuse and threats, both online and in person. Those leaving include many moderate pro-EU Conservatives, Labour legislators who say their party has not stamped out anti-Semitism and high-profile female legislators, who have received a disproportionate amount of abuse.
