
Bloomberg UK Politics
A European Shift: Are UK Attitudes Towards the EU Changing?
Dec 12, 2024
Mark Leonard, co-founder and director of the European Council on Foreign Relations, discusses shifting UK attitudes towards the EU. He reveals how growing global uncertainties are fostering a pragmatic approach, with most voters supporting compromises on free movement for trade benefits. The conversation explores a renewed desire for closer UK-EU ties, particularly in defense and economic matters, highlighting the public's inclination toward aligning with Europe rather than the US.
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Quick takeaways
- Recent polling indicates a significant majority of UK voters, including Brexit supporters, favor compromises on free movement for enhanced trade relations with the EU.
- The growing public sentiment across Europe shows increased willingness for collaboration with the UK on security issues, reflecting a response to recent geopolitical tensions.
Deep dives
The Shift in UK-EU Relations
There has been a significant shift in public attitudes in the UK towards the European Union, influenced by recent geopolitical events, including Russia's invasion of Ukraine and the potential return of Donald Trump. A recent poll shows that a majority of British citizens, including many who voted for Brexit, now support compromising on free movement in exchange for better trade relations. This pragmatic approach reflects a growing recognition that a closer relationship with Europe is essential for addressing security and economic challenges. Moreover, there is considerable support for cooperation on issues like migration and defense, indicating a willingness to move beyond the divisive nature of the Brexit debate.
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