When I first heard about the referendum and David Cameron's valiant efforts to make the EU more palatable, I thought that the majority opinion would be to stay in. It's a bigger step to change the status quo than accept it, and I doubted that voters would take that step. Then, when some rather intelligent people started speaking for the Brexit option, I acknowledged that there was an alternative. In the past, I've strongly criticised the way that the EU has developed from the original ideals of a Common Market. I don't believe that 28 countries, with different cultures and political styles, can agree what is best for the community and ignore their national interest. Maybe, it’s time to leave.
Speakers representing the two sides have been eloquent and believable; nevertheless, very little detail has been included in their words. There have been threats of economic disaster if the wrong decision is made, but little positive comment. The conclusion is that no one really knows what will happen if the Brexit side were to win. Stay in, though, and we would continue as now, with the few changes forced through by Cameron as a consolation prize - the lesser of two evils.
Recent polls have indicated that young people will decide the result, if they vote; the majority of them have said they would prefer to be part of the EU, but about half haven't committed to voting. Those of pension age favour leaving the EU by a sizeable majority and those in between are evenly balanced. As the referendum gets closer, the figures waver, making the result unpredictable.
Personally, I see this as an opportunity for the UK to leave the EU and stand on its own two feet. I don't think European businesses would cease trading with an existing customer, and do think that trading, without current restrictions, could be beneficial for the UK. If I were in the UK, I'd vote to leave. However, I live in Spain and selfishly need the answers to other questions. If the UK leaves, how will my rights as a British citizen be affected? Will the rules on pensions and healthcare be changed? It appears that there’s no definite answer, and the opinion depends on who you talk with, or which newspaper you read. Without satisfactory reassurance, I could decide to vote to remain in the EU. This goes against my gut feeling, but I wish to protect my personal position; a case of head v heart.
It will be an interesting few weeks ahead. Opposing views will continue to be heard in an attempt to persuade the undecided, with the media continuing their daily scaremongering tactics. Come 24th June, the result will be known and the UK will either be starting negotiations to leave the EU, or continuing as at present - unsettled and part of a more disparate Europe than was ever imagined at the EU's conception.