“It is rare for voters to change their minds soon after referendums. Experience from Canada to Scotland, from Norway to Switzerland, suggests rather that opinions tend to move in favour of a referendum result more than they swing against it. But Brexit seems to be an exception,” – The Economist (April 11th, 2024)
Since the referendum in June 2016, where 52% of voters favoured leaving the European Union, opinions among Britons have undergone a notable shift, particularly over the past two years, with many now concluding that the decision was erroneous.
The Economist provides a comparative analysis of two English towns named Richmond, which exhibited contrasting voting patterns in 2016, provides insights into this evolving sentiment.
In Richmond-upon-Thames, located in London, which heavily favoured remaining in the EU with a 69-31% vote, there has been a hardening of opinion against Brexit.
Gareth Roberts, the council leader from the Liberal Democrat party, observes that post-Brexit inconveniences such as longer border delays and increased passport controls have contributed to solidifying local opposition.
Despite this, a Leave voter expressed disappointment with the Conservative government’s failure to secure significant trade deals outside the EU.
Conversely, Richmond in North Yorkshire, which voted 57-43% in favour of Brexit, maintains a supportive stance towards leaving the EU.
However, some residents voice concerns about the perceived mishandling of Brexit and unfulfilled promises regarding immigration reduction.
A local bartender, reflecting on her instinctive Leave vote, acknowledges a need for deeper understanding of the implications of Brexit, suggesting a shift in perspective.
Former Mayor Stuart Parsons notes instances of friends changing their minds, particularly small farmers feeling betrayed by the Conservative government’s handling of public subsidies.
Anecdotal evidence aligns with national polls, indicating a shift in sentiment since 2016, with a notable proportion of former Leave voters now reconsidering their position.
The aging demographic, predominantly in favor of leaving the EU, contrasts with the younger generation’s opposition, while undecided and non-voting individuals tend to lean against Brexit.
Various explanations for this disillusionment exist, ranging from economic concerns to perceived dishonesty from the Leave campaign.
Political divisions within the Conservative Party, coupled with leadership changes, have contributed to a tarnished perception of Brexit.
The association between the Conservative Party and the decision to leave the EU has led to electoral implications, with some former Leave supporters now leaning away from the Tories, potentially towards alternative parties like the Reform Party.
Conversely, former Remain supporters, disillusioned with Brexit’s economic impact, are gravitating towards the Labour Party. Despite a prevailing anti-Brexit sentiment, there is little appetite to revisit the issue extensively, even among fervent Remainers.
While the Labour Party is cautious in its approach to Brexit, aiming to regain support in traditionally Leave-leaning regions, there remains room for maneuvering on EU relations if they assume office.
Suggestions within the party for closer alignment with EU rules may face less resistance amid waning enthusiasm for Brexit.
In conclusion, attitudes towards Brexit have evolved since the 2016 referendum, with a significant proportion of voters reevaluating their stance.
While discontent with Brexit exists across various demographics, there is a reluctance to reignite debates surrounding the issue.
As Brexit’s appeal diminishes, political dynamics are shifting, potentially paving the way for recalibration in UK-EU relations under future leadership.
Main Image: Door Martin Hearn – https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=75952864
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Read also: Brexit Shambles: even Nigel Farage now admits Brexit “has failed”
Brexit has failed to deliver, politically, economically, or environmentally, and promises of taking back control of Britain’s borders prove empty as both legal and illegal immigration rates soar.
A Brexit Shambles indeed…
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