08 May 2024 , 23:01
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Half of voters want the UK to have a closer relationship with the EU, a megapoll has shown.
A survey of more than 15,000 voters found 49.2% want stronger links with Europe, with less than 15% favouring more distance and 24% wanting things to stay as they are. Campaign group Best for Britain says improving ties is "essential" for the Government.
More than four in 10 undecided voters want the UK to have better relations, compared to 11.6% who think it is currently too close to the EU. Naomi Smith, Best for Britain's chief executive, said: “Eight years since the referendum and three years since Boris Johnson ’s botched deal came into effect, no serious person argues that Brexit has been good for the UK, with fewer opportunities and increased costs for consumers and businesses.
"A closer EU-UK relationship is not only possible, it is essential to reverse some of the damage that has been done and put Britain on the path to a better future. Voters want it, businesses need it and the next government must deliver it.”
The survey, carried out by Survation, found that Scotland had the highest support for better relations, with 56.2% wanting the UK and EU to be closer. It also found that in Boston and Skegness, where 74.9% of voters backed leave in the 2016 referendum, having a closer relationship is the most popular option.
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Almost a third (30.7%) of Tory voters wanted to improve links, compared to 62% among Labour supporters and 73% who back the SNP.
Best for Britain has called on the Government to accept 114 recommendations to improve the Brexit deal, including a reciprocal Youth Mobility Scheme and Beneficial Regulatory Alignment to protect high standards.