As the United Kingdom marks a decade since the historic 2016 EU referendum, the debate over the nation's relationship with Europe is once again at the forefront of political discourse. A new exclusive poll reveals a significant shift in public sentiment, with a majority now indicating they would vote to return to the bloc.
A Decade of Division and a New Political Landscape
This year signifies ten years since the British public voted by 52% to 48% to leave the European Union, a decision that reshaped the nation's political landscape. The result triggered the resignation of then-Prime Minister David Cameron and dominated the premierships of Theresa May and Boris Johnson, who grappled with negotiating a withdrawal agreement.
Now, under Prime Minister Keir Starmer, the government is pursuing a path of diplomatic repair. In a major foreign policy speech last year, Starmer acknowledged the 2016 vote as a "fair, democratic expression" but was sharply critical of its execution. He stated the way Brexit was "sold and delivered was simply wrong," citing unfulfilled "wild promises" whose consequences are still felt today.
Steps Towards Closer Ties and Persistent Divides
A tangible sign of this thawing relationship is the UK's decision to rejoin the Erasmus+ programme. This move will allow British students to study at European universities once more, with over 100,000 people projected to benefit in the scheme's first full year in 2027.
However, Brexit remains a profoundly thorny issue. Calls for deeper cooperation, such as the Liberal Democrats' push for a new customs union, are swiftly met with accusations of betrayal from Brexit's staunchest advocates. Nigel Farage, a key architect of the Leave campaign, has recently demanded a renegotiation to prevent EU citizens from claiming UK benefits—a move some warn could risk a trade war.
Meanwhile, figures like TUC General Secretary Paul Nowak argue that closer links to Brussels are essential, especially with Donald Trump viewed as an unreliable transatlantic partner.
What the Polling Reveals: A Generational Split
The enduring divide is starkly illustrated by an exclusive poll for The Mirror. It found that if a second referendum were held today, nearly six in 10 (58%) of those who would vote would choose to rejoin the EU.
The data uncovers a clear generational split. Support for rejoining is highest among 18 to 24-year-olds, with a staggering 86% in favour. Conversely, older demographics are more likely to support staying out, with 58% of over-65s preferring life outside the bloc.
As Westminster continues to navigate the complex legacy of Brexit, the fundamental question of the UK's European future persists. The conversation has evolved from 'Leave' or 'Remain' to one about the nature of the future relationship, but the underlying passions remain potent. The nation's view, it seems, is still very much being shaped.
