ICM Poll

Summary

In April 2007 Global Vision commissioned an ICM poll on the public's views on Britain's relationship with the EU and whether there should be a referendum on a ‘looser' relationship with the EU.

People were given a choice of three options. The first was to stay within the EU and participate in further integration. The second was to have a looser relationship with the EU based on trade and cooperation, whilst opting out of political and economic union. And the third was to withdraw from the EU altogether.

27% wanted to stay in, whilst 36% chose the looser relationship option and 29% wished to leave altogether. The residual 8% were in various states of uncertainty. Overall, therefore, two-thirds of all respondents wanted radical change - with the ‘looser relationship' based on free trade the option of choice.

People were also asked if there should be a referendum on the looser relationship option. An overwhelming majority, 69%, said yes - whilst 22% said no and 9% didn't know.

Results

Question 1: If the UK could have the ideal relationship with Europe, which of the following would you yourself prefer?

Question 2: Do you think there should or should not be a referendum on the proposal that Britain should have a looser relationship with Europe, maintaining free trade and cooperation on common policies, but opting out of political and economic integration?

RL. May 2007.