Conference Recess - Project Open Gov

A break in parliamentary sittings around the party conference season.

Also used as: conference recess, Conference Recess, party conference recess, autumn conference recess

Source / explainer: View House of Commons recess dates

Last reviewed: 23 August 2026

Conference recess is a break in parliamentary sittings around the party conference season. It usually falls in early autumn, but the precise dates can change. It is important for calendars and summaries because ordinary Commons and Lords business may pause during this period.

Related terms

Non-sitting DayA day when a House of Parliament is not meeting to conduct ordinary business.RecessA break during a parliamentary session when the Houses do not meet to conduct business.Return of the HouseThe date on which a House resumes sitting after a recess or other break.Rising of the HouseThe point at which a House finishes its business and adjourns.