The House of Commons is shutting down for five weeks to help prevent the spread of COVID-19 among MPs.

All parties reached an agreement today to suspend sittings until Monday, April 20.

By unanimous consent, the #HoC adopted a motion to
adopt Bill #C4 at 3rd reading, bills #C10, #C11 and #C12 at all stages, the @NDP #OppositionMotion on Pharmacare, cancel committee meetings, adjourn the House until April 20, 2020, and other matters. #cdnpoli

— In the Chamber (@HoCChamber) March 13, 2020

Officials confirm that the Commons could return sooner than that date should an emergency arise that requires a meeting.

The delay also means the Federal Budget will not be presented on March 30, as previously promised by Finance Minister Bill Morneau.

The agreement to suspend the Commons also received approval from all parties for a new date to be selected.

The House has adjourned until Monday, April 20, at 11 am ET.

— In the Chamber (@HoCChamber) March 13, 2020