The Dutch electoral council has recommended holding the general election on October 29, after MPs on Wednesday voted in favour of organising a public vote as soon as possible.

The council said it had taken a number of factors into account in setting the date, such as ensuring local authorities would have enough time to prepare properly and recruit volunteers to staff polling stations and oversee the count.

Sufficient time also needs to be allocated to ensure that Dutch voters abroad can register and take part. Political parties must also draw up lists of candidates and hold congresses to approve their manifestos. School holidays also need to be considered.

“All things considered, the council sees Wednesday October 29 as the first realistic option for the elections,” council chief Wim Kuijken said.

The vote, in 21 weeks time, will be the third Dutch general election within five years.

In Dutch electoral law, there is a maximum 43-day period for the formal campaign and vote itself. Eight days after the election, the new parliament will meet for the first time.