The 1974 United Kingdom General Election was held on February 28, 1974, primarily to address the political instability caused by economic challenges and the oil crisis. The election resulted in a hung parliament, with the Labour Party, led by Harold Wilson, winning 301 seats, while the Conservative Party, led by Edward Heath, secured 297 seats. Due to the lack of an outright majority, Harold Wilson formed a minority government. This election was significant as it marked the first time since 1929 that a party won the most seats without a clear majority, leading to further political negotiations and a second election later that year.