At present, the Liberal Party of Canada forms the Government of Canada. The Canadian Alliance (which changed its name from the Reform Party in March 2000) forms the Official Opposition because it won the second most number of constituencies in the most recent election.

Both the Government of Canada and all politicians representing opposing political parties form the House of Commons. There are at present 301 constituencies and therefore 301 "seats" in the House of Commons. This is the legislative body, also known as Parliament because it meets in the Parliament Buildings, located in the city of Ottawa, the capital of Canada.

In the House of Commons, legislation proposed by the Government is debated, and either passed or defeated in a declared (not secret) vote. As well, in the House of Commons, debates are held about matters of national concern and international affairs.

Results of the most recent federal election, held 27 November 2000

• Percentage of votes by party
• Number of constituencies by party
• Constituencies by province
• Distribution of seats by provinces and territories in the past five elections
• Federal seats by party and province