FACTBOX - How Labour chooses a new leader

(Reuters) - Prime Minister Tony Blair is expected to stand down next week after more than a decade in power. Chancellor Gordon Brown is expected to take over.

Following is a timetable for the Labour Party election for a leader and deputy leader. It will last at least seven weeks and the new Labour leader will become the prime minister.

WEEK 1

* Blair resigns as Labour Party leader. Deputy leader John Prescott resigns simultaneously.

* The party's National Executive Committee (NEC) meets within 72 hours to agree the start of the succession contest.

* Contenders for both posts have three parliamentary sitting days to get the backing of 45 members of parliament (MPs), including themselves, to make it on to the ballot paper.

* A list of the "validly nominated candidates" is finalised.

WEEKS 2-4

* Candidates gather nominations from parliamentarians, union representatives, grassroots organisations, giving an indication of levels of support. Each union member votes individually but union leaders may endorse a particular candidate for each post.