Record number of Britons think Brexit is a mistake

The share of Britons who believe Brexit is a mistake reached a new record high in July.

This was shown by a survey conducted by the sociological company YouGov, Reuters reports.

Given the insignificant economic benefits of the country's withdrawal from the European Union, 57% of Britons said the decision to Brexit in 2016 was a mistake. Only 32% of respondents said it was the right decision.

If the referendum were to be held again, more than half of those polled - 55% - said they would vote to return to the EU. 31% of respondents would support Brexit.

YouGov notes that these results show a "moderate shift" compared to January 2021, when 49% said they would vote to join the EU and 37% said they would vote against it.

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak said in May that Brexit was bringing benefits, citing his 'free ports' policy and VAT cuts.

Economists say that free ports - "special zones" with tax and customs exemptions and simplified trade rules - are unlikely to boost the British economy, but may be of limited value as a tool for regional development.

Author - Olena Madiak, 18/07/2023