Historical Context of UK’s Relationship with European Union
Back in 1961, the conservative government led by British Prime Minister Harold Macmillan sought membership in the European Economic Community. However, in 1963, French President Charles de Gaulle declined the UK’s request, expressing doubts about London’s commitment to genuine European integration.
The UK made another attempt in 1967 under Labour Prime Minister Harold Wilson, but once again, De Gaulle refused. It wasn’t until after De Gaulle’s death and the leadership of Tory Prime Minister Edward Heath that Britain successfully joined the community in 1973.
When Wilson returned to power in 1975, Labour organized a referendum on membership in the community, encouraging voters to support the “yes” campaign.
Fast forward nearly four decades, and David Cameron’s conservative government held another referendum on whether to remain in the European Union. The outcome saw the “Brexiteers,” led by Boris Johnson, winning with 51.9% to 48.1%. Cameron resigned soon after, and after extensive negotiations, the UK officially left the EU in 2020 under Johnson’s leadership.
Many economists have expressed concerns that Brexit might not have been the best decision. The UK’s GDP growth surged post-COVID, with rates of 8.6% in 2021 and 5.9% in 2022. Yet, growth has sharply declined since then, dipping below 1% in 2025.
There seems to be a sense of fatigue among British citizens regarding Brexit. Recent polls from YouGov indicated that 53% of Britons favor rejoining the EU, with nearly two-thirds expressing desire for closer relations with Europe than what’s currently in place.
Beyond financial considerations and public sentiment, Labour Prime Minister Keir Starmer is gradually working to mend ties with Europe, citing factors like Vladimir Putin’s invasion of Ukraine and Donald Trump’s ongoing influence regarding America’s role in NATO.
Starmer appears to prioritize maintaining good relations with the US, as verbal agreements have been made to reduce trade barriers. Additionally, ongoing defense agreements between Australia and the UK remain strong, with US-UK military relations stable despite changes in the US administration. However, good relations with Washington alone aren’t enough to address growing concerns about the future of the UK economy, European stability, and overall democracy in Europe.
On May 19, YouGov continued gauging public opinion. The UK government announced “a new agreement with the European Union” aimed at supporting UK businesses and jobs while increasing citizens’ disposable income. This particular deal is set to benefit the UK’s agricultural sector by eliminating daily checks on animal and plant products, simplifying import and export processes.
The agreement also links the emission trading systems of the UK and the EU. The government claims this move will enhance energy security in the UK and help avoid an impending EU carbon tax. London anticipates this deal could contribute roughly £9 billion to the UK economy by 2040, while also safeguarding UK steel exports from new EU regulations and tariffs, which could save the steel sector £25 million annually.
Another notable aspect is the independent UK-EU defense agreement. This partnership aims to enable the UK’s defense industry to participate in the EU’s upcoming £150 billion European Security Action Fund. It indicates a willingness for greater defense collaboration, particularly with France, and seeks to ensure security for Ukraine through an “Anglo-French coalition.”
However, it’s essential to note that these agreements stipulate “no return to the single market, customs union, or freedom of movement.” Some observers speculate that the UK might eventually reconsider its stance on freedom of movement concerning EU regulations.
Ultimately, this policy echoes a familiar sentiment expressed by Winston Churchill regarding relations with Europe: “We are with Europe, but not of it. We are connected, but not absorbed.”
