As the UK approaches the tenth anniversary of the 2016 Brexit referendum, fresh polling indicates a significant shift in public opinion. A Deltapoll survey conducted for the Mirror reveals that 58% of voters would choose to rejoin the European Union if given a second referendum.
The enthusiasm for reversing Brexit is particularly strong among younger voters. An overwhelming 86% of 18 to 24-year-olds said they would vote to re-enter the EU. In contrast, older generations are more divided. Among those aged 55 to 64, 51% prefer to stay outside the EU, while 49% support rejoining. This sentiment of remaining outside the bloc grows stronger with age, reaching 58% opposition among those over 65.
The poll also reflects clear political divides. Conservative and Reform UK voters predominantly support maintaining Brexit, with 66% and 82% respectively opposing re-entry. Conversely, Labour and Liberal Democrat supporters are firmly in favor of rejoining, with 71% of Labour and 78% of Lib Dem voters backing EU membership.
READ MORE: Dad Earns £24K Annually from Part-Time Dog Waste Cleanup Service
READ MORE: Willenhall Pub Approved for Conversion into 10-Bedroom HMO
Regionally, Scotland shows the highest support for rejoining the EU at 73%, followed closely by London and Wales at 65%. Support in the Midlands and the North is lower but still favors rejoining, standing at 53% and 54% respectively.
Political leaders have responded cautiously to these sentiments. Labour leader Keir Starmer has worked to improve relations with Europe, securing a trade deal with Brussels and facilitating the return of UK students to the Erasmus+ program. While Starmer has indicated openness to deeper cooperation with the EU, including closer alignment with the single market, he dismisses the idea of reversing Brexit completely as government policy.
Within Labour ranks, some voices, like Health Secretary Wes Streeting, advocate for renewed customs union membership. Meanwhile, trade union leader Paul Nowak stresses the importance of stronger ties with Brussels given global geopolitical uncertainties, including concerns about the UK’s traditional allies.
Naomi Smith, CEO of Best for Britain, interprets the polling data as evidence of growing public dissatisfaction with Brexit’s outcomes. She points to the challenges posed by unpredictable international relations and economic pressures, suggesting that rebuilding trust with Europe is essential before exploring possibilities such as a customs union, single market participation, or full EU membership.
Despite these shifts in public opinion, Downing Street remains firm that rejoining the single market or customs union is not on the government agenda. The Prime Minister’s office emphasizes a commitment to improved EU relations while reaffirming existing policy boundaries.
The question remains: if given the chance, would you vote to rejoin the EU? Readers are invited to share their views in the comments, explaining their reasons or how Brexit has impacted their lives and opportunities.
Please ensure comments remain respectful and constructive, as we seek genuine insights into this pivotal issue.