Its composition was determined by the 2002 election, and it sat until 11 August 2005.

[1][2] The Labour Party and the Progressive Party, backed by United Future, commanded a majority throughout the 47th Parliament.

The National Party, although dealt a significant blow in the last election, remained the largest opposition party.

The remainder were elected by means of party-list proportional representation under the MMP electoral system.

The table below shows the number of MPs in each party following the 2002 election and at dissolution:[citation needed] Notes The initial members of the 47th Parliament were as follows:[3] There was one by-election held during the term of the 47th Parliament.