The Institute for Public Policy Research (IPPR) urged Britain on Oct. 19 to make European Union membership a medium-term goal, citing its limited influence over larger economic and security blocs.
In a June 11-15 survey of 3,039 people commissioned by IPPR and Persuasion UK, 52% favored rejoining the EU and 29% preferred to remain outside. Another 10% were undecided, while 9% said they would not vote.
A separate experiment from June 25-30 surveyed 2,907 people about different terms for Britain’s relationship with the bloc. Across those scenarios, EU membership drew 52% support on average, compared with 58% for a closer economic relationship without membership. IPPR found that adopting the euro and giving up independent trade deals weakened support for rejoining. EU budget contributions reduced support when presented in an opposition message.
The think tank argues that Britain has less power to shape economic and security decisions made by larger blocs. Its report says the government should build public support before seeking a mandate for membership, either through a referendum or an election pledge.
One proposed exchange would give EU firms preferential access to parts of Britain’s public procurement market. In return, British content would count as European under the EU’s planned Industrial Accelerator Act. The proposal adds to the debate over possible British inclusion in the EU industrial scheme, which has also involved the UK auto industry. IPPR did not quantify a fiscal cost for its proposal.
IPPR also called for a European Defence Alliance. In arguing that political leadership can change a party’s position, its report pointed to Labour’s shift toward European integration in the 1980s.
Prime Minister Andy Burnham has said he will present options for Britain’s long-term EU relationship around the Nov. 20 UK-EU summit in Brussels. He has envisaged a broader dialogue after the meeting.
