brexit

A very relevant, popular topic is whether the United Kingdom should remain or depart from the European Union, also known as Brexit. In my opinion I believe we should’ve remained as I’m fond of the idea of freedom of movement and free trade, and also that the vote should’ve been opened up to 16 and 17 year olds as it will effect us in the coming years. By opening the vote to 16 and 17 year olds it not only involves the younger population in politics aiding the participation crisis but also allows younger generations to make decisions on their future. For example, 2014 Scottish referendum included 16 and 17 year olds and it proved to be effective as 75% of the youngsters voted allowing them to have a express themselves and opinions, and also demonstrated an interest in politics in the younger generation where it usually lacks.
There were many flaws in how the 2016 EU referendum was carried out, for example how many were mislead to sway votes. The bus advert that stated 350 million would be given into the NHS if we leave the European Union and stating a potential pay rise for workers was over exaggerated essentially lied to the population. This false advertisement swayed votes in favour of the vote leave campaign along with the false adverts circulating Facebook. In addition, a majority of the population were uneducated on the EU and what the purpose of the union entails as can be seen a survey where (look at graph)
Along side this, the idea of passive voters, those that didn’t vote simply because they believed remain would win and didn’t believe their vote would be that significant.
The reasons for remaining in the European Union are obvious, free movement, free trade etc. the list continues.
Why you should leave:
  1. EU would no longer regulate trade costs, therefore Britain would be able to to set Value Added Tax and other regulations for itself. All of this could potentially save British households £933 per year.
Counter:
  1. Leaving the EU would cause energy bills to rise by £500m. Britain’s energy security is also stronger as part of the EU because it negotiates for energy as part of a larger bloc. Leaving the EU would also put the UK’s efforts to uphold the EU’s action plan for reducing air pollutants in jeopardy, while creating uncertainty for investors in the environmental sector.
Although the departure of the EU allows potentially more control over UK’s borders and therefore over immigration which were what many were voting for.
C2B769E3-032A-4683-BE5E-F236A844D66A.png
In conclusion, i think the decision on whether we should’ve remained in the EU should’ve been dictated by parliament as they’re far more educated in its policies, benefits and drawbacks. If not the population should’ve been properly educated on the EU purpose to allow people to make a decision they can stick by because they knew the facts. Although another referendum is unlikely I still believe one should take place as many were poorly informed and were swayed by others personal agenda.