Would British Voters Reconsider Their Brexit Decision Today?

In the four and a half years since the January 31, 2020 Brexit, there has been no public desire to re-run the decision. The separation from the European Union was a deliberate and majority-driven choice, and there is no need to revisit it. The event has already occurred, and its legal status remains conclusive. However, with time, perspectives, and events changing, the question naturally arises: Would British voters reconsider their Brexit vote if given the chance?

No Desire to Re-run Brexit

The 2016 Brexit referendum result was decided by a majority of over a million votes. Despite ongoing discussions and debates, there is strong sentiment that the referendum outcome should stand. Proponents argue that re-voting on a matter already resolved for so long would be redundant and potentially disruptive to current relationships and agreements. Recent surveys and public opinion polls have consistently shown that a re-vote would likely yield similar results, further reinforcing this stance.

Remain in Europe: We Have Always Been a Part of Europe

Brexit was about leaving the political organization known as the EU, whereas the United Kingdom's geographical and cultural ties with Europe have always been strong. The term 'Brexit' reflects a decision to leave the political organization, not sever ties with Europe. It's a common misconception that staying in the EU is the only way to be part of Europe. Being a European nation means more than just membership in the EU. It includes cultural, economic, and historical connections that can't be fully encapsulated by EU membership.

No Serious Call for a Referendum

There is no serious call for another referendum. If one were to occur, it would be framed not as a re-run of the original Brexit vote, but as a choice between remaining outside the EU and rejoining. The issue of whether to leave or stay is unlikely to arise again in the near future. The legal and political environment has evolved, and the focus is now on navigating the post-Brexit landscape rather than revisiting past decisions.

No Possibility of a 'Neverendum'

Attempts to suggest a re-vote are often met with skepticism. The Remainer camp is seen as untrustworthy due to their perceived betrayal of the majority vote during the original referendum. Such a move would be politically suicidal given the current success of the UK compared to the EU. The phrase 'neverendum' has become a well-used term in British politics, encapsulating the idea that no one would call for another Brexit vote, as trust has eroded.

2024: A Possibility?

While the immediate future looks settled, there is a small possibility that the issue may resurface in 2024. The Conservative Party, or any political party, might call for another referendum if they have made significant mistakes that could lead to their downfall. However, the acceptance of the UK back into the EU is far from certain. Historical instances have shown that the EU is reluctant to accept nations back into the fold without imposing strict conditions, which may not be politically viable.

Would Public Opinion Change?

Reflecting on the current knowledge and experiences, the perspective of British voters who supported 'Remain' might shift. They are becoming aware that the UK's economy has not declined as predicted, and some critics might change their stance. On the other hand, those who voted to leave would likely vote in the same way, seeing the EU as a tool manipulated for the benefit of a few. This includes the lack of MEP influence, the forced acceptance of trade deals, and the perception of the EU as a gravy train for political elites.

Conclusion

The idea of voting again on Brexit is not only legally and politically complex but also met with strong opposition from the general public. The original vote was a reflection of broader national sentiment, and re-voting is unlikely to sway opinions significantly. Nonetheless, the situation remains fluid, and any future political changes could alter the current stance. As Britain continues to navigate the complexities of a post-Brexit world, the likelihood of a re-vote remains low, but not entirely impossible.