Britain and the EU

Britain has been a member of the European Economic Community, and now the European Union, for over 30 years.  In 1975, the question of whether Britain should stay a member was decided by a two-to-one majority in a national referendum, yet the debate about Britain’s membership continues. 

For many years “Eurosceptics” argued that they did believe in Britain’s membership of the EU, they just wanted different terms.  When the euro was introduced, Britain decided not to take part, and the financial crisis affecting the eurozone has strengthened that position.  Now, such has been the shift in the political debate in the UK, many are less shy of advocating withdrawal.  They argue that there are perfectly acceptable alternatives to membership that would bring both political and economic benefits to the UK.