Egypt's parliamentary election, originally planned for September, will be delayed until the second half of November.

The announcement was made today by the Supreme Electoral Commission, one day after its formation by the ruling Supreme Council of the Armed Forces.

Several political parties welcomed the delay because it gives them more time to organize and prepare for fielding candidates.

Most say they want assurances that the election will be free and fair. They want to see the previous voting system eliminated.

They say printed voter registration lists were used during the Mubarak regime and that allowed Mubarak to manipulate the outcome of the polls.

They want an electronic database system, based on national identification card numbers, implemented because it would lessen the chances of voter fraud.

The United Nations said it will offer logistical support for the election, but no official monitoring services.

Pro-democracy advocates insists the election must include outside monitoring to guarantee fairness and honesty.

The country's Electoral Commission will be headed up by one of Egypt's top judges. It's work is slated to begin Sept.18.