Absolute majority

An absolute majority is calculated against a defined total rather than only by comparing competing options. The reference may be all members of the National Assembly or another legally specified body. For a motion of no confidence, the Constitution requires an absolute majority of all members of the Assembly.

At least 289 votes are required when the rule is an absolute majority of all 577 seats.

The relevant total must be checked: it may be all members, not merely MPs present or votes cast.

More than half of a specified total

Reference total depends on the procedure

Used for constitutionally significant decisions