We shall take our case to the country Prime Minister James Callaghan

An election could be called as early as 10 May although the Tories are pushing for 26 April.

Mr Callaghan, who will remain in office until he wins a new mandate or is defeated in the election, remained defiant as he spoke to Parliament following the result.

"Mr Speaker, now that the House of Commons has declared itself, we shall take our case to the country," he said.

He will meet the Queen at Buckingham Palace to ask for Parliament to be dissolved "as soon as essential business can be cleared up".

"And I will announce as soon as maybe - and that will be as soon as possible - the date of dissolution, the date of the election, and the date of the new meeting of the new Parliament," he added.

Mrs Thatcher, who had waited tensely for the result, said: "We shall facilitate any business which requires the co-operation of the opposition."

Tory MPs cheered jubilantly after the result waving papers, while Labour left-wingers sombrely rose and began singing the Red Flag.

At least 17 working days must elapse between the royal proclamation of an election and polling day.

Tories expect the dying government to dissolve Parliament by the weekend.

The prime minister, who has the right to choose the election date, is expected to call it on 10 May.

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