UK Public Opinion Turns Against Brexit, Growing Support for EU Re-membership

Professor Sir John Curtice, the UK’s leading pollster, says a “significant body of voters have decided that being outside the EU is not worth it.” His review of polling since the 2016 referendum finds a “decisive and consistent shift away from Brexit,” with support for remaining outside markedly lower.

The Independent

The 2016 vote promised lower immigration and economic gain. Curtice notes EU-origin migration fell while non-EU immigration rose, and that sovereignty benefits have not materialised, with many now saying the referendum “has not withstood the test of time particularly well.”

The Independent

Curtie’s review of 500 polls since 2016 finds a “double-digit” lead for those favouring a return to the EU. Within a year of the vote, opinion swung against Brexit; by the time the UK left, a narrow majority opposed it, and the gap grew to a double-digit margin.

The Independent

The shift fuels *The Independent*’s “Europe: The Way Back” campaign, which argues that Brexit’s disappointment has reduced the United Kingdom’s global influence and economic standing, prompting calls to rebuild ties with Europe.

The Independent

Critics contend the economy is now perceived as worse off and that promised sovereignty gains have not materialised. The rise in non-EU immigration and unmet Leave expectations have led observers to deem Brexit a thorough failure.

The Independent

• “While some always had doubts about the economic consequences of leaving, there is now a widespread view that the economy is worse off as a result.” — Professor Sir John Curtice

The Independent

• “Brexit has largely failed to live up to Leave voters’ expectations.” — Professor Sir John Curtice

The Independent

The sources describe a qualitative shift but provide no precise percentages for current EU-re-membership support or the exact size of the double-digit lead.

The Independent

*The Independent* will continue the “Europe: The Way Back” series, hosting analysis, interviews and events to shape future UK-EU policy discussions.

The Independent