A recent survey by Deltapoll for The Mirror indicates that a significant number of UK citizens would support rejoining the European Union if another Brexit referendum were to take place. The survey found that 58% of potential voters in a second referendum would choose to return to the EU. The highest support for reversing Brexit was among the younger demographic, with 86% of 18 to 24-year-olds in favor of rejoining the bloc. In contrast, older voters showed more inclination to remain outside the EU, with 51% to 49% support among 55 to 64-year-olds and 58% to 42% among those over 65.
Political affiliations played a role in the survey results, with Conservative and Reform voters predominantly supporting the current status quo (66% and 82% respectively), while Labour and Lib Dem supporters were more inclined to rejoin the EU (71% and 78% respectively). The desire to return to the EU was widespread across the country, with Scotland showing the highest support at 73%, followed by London and Wales at 65%. The Midlands and the North had lower but still majority support for rejoining the EU.
Efforts have been made to mend UK-EU relations post-Brexit, including a trade deal struck with Brussels by Keir Starmer. The UK government announced plans to rejoin the Erasmus+ program, allowing British students to study in European universities again. While signaling a desire for closer ties with the EU, Starmer clarified that he does not support reversing Brexit but aims for a stronger relationship with the EU.
Although some voices within UK politics, such as Health Secretary Wes Streeting and TUC General Secretary Paul Nowak, have advocated for closer ties with the EU, the government has reiterated its stance against rejoining the single market and customs union. The Prime Minister’s spokesman emphasized the importance of strengthening the UK’s relationship with the EU while maintaining certain red lines.
Naomi Smith, Chief Executive of Best for Britain, highlighted public sentiment that views Brexit as a failure and expressed the need for the UK to demonstrate commitment as a reliable neighbor, potentially paving the way for closer ties with the EU. The debate continues as various stakeholders weigh the benefits and implications of potential reintegration with the EU.