Story perspectives

Piddington Votes 285-26 to Leave UK

By Drooid · Sep 19, 2026, 4:02 PM UTC · How we work

Summary

Story summary

Residents of Piddington, Oxfordshire, held a symbolic referendum on leaving the United Kingdom.
Of 312 votes cast, 285 supported secession, 26 opposed, and one ballot was spoiled.
The government said it will not reconsider the plan to house up to 1,256 asylum seekers at MoD Bicester.
The Home Office opened a public consultation on the plan that runs until 17 September.
Prime Minister Andy Burnham said he understands the village’s feeling.

History

Historical Context

The 5 June 1975 European Communities referendum, led by Prime Minister Harold Wilson, saw 67.2% of voters approve continued membership with a 64% turnout, establishing Britain’s first nationwide plebiscite on Europe. That precedent of local dissent influencing national policy resurfaces as Piddington’s recent secession vote—285 of 312 ballots—pressures the Home Office and echoes the 1975 lesson.

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Story summary

Residents of Piddington, Oxfordshire, held a symbolic referendum on leaving the United Kingdom.
Of 312 votes cast, 285 supported secession, 26 opposed, and one ballot was spoiled.
The government said it will not reconsider the plan to house up to 1,256 asylum seekers at MoD Bicester.
The Home Office opened a public consultation on the plan that runs until 17 September.
Prime Minister Andy Burnham said he understands the village’s feeling.

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