The Centre appears to be toying with the idea of holding Lok Sabha elections in February, apparently depending on how the global economic crisis plays itself out.

An indication to this effect was given by Minister of state in the PMO Prithviraj Chavan.

Noting that there is a "talk" in political circles about  February elections, he said that there were two slots that were possible for holding the elections--one in February and other in April-May as March is the month of school examinations

The next government has to assume office by the third week of May.

Asked by reporters  whether February is the "favourite" time, he said that "everyone has his own favourite time and there are two views either to go in for February polls or on schedule."

He said within the government and the party, a firm decision will be taken on the best available time.

Government sources said that if it is a February election then the schedule for the Lok Sabha polls would have to be announced by middle of December, soon after the results of the five Assembly polls.