The UK joined the European Economic Community (EEC) in 1973, with membership confirmed by a referendum on 5 June 1975. The electorate expressed substantial support for EEC membership, with 67% in favour on a national turnout of 64%
In the 1970’s and 1980’s, withdrawal from the EU was advocated mainly by the Labour Party and then, from the 1990’s onwards, by the UK Independence Party (UKIP) and an increasing number of Eurosceptic Conservative MP’s.
As we draw to the end of another year, there is no doubt that, above all else, 2016 will be remembered for the seismic changes, which have taken place in the political realm. Many have been shocked and disturbed at the developments, whereas others have hailed 2016 as the year of political revolution.
Political upheaval has dominated, as the UK voted to leave the European Union in June and Donald Trump was elected as the 45th President of the United States of America in November. Some speculated, centring on Western politics and the EU in particular, as to which nation might next be impacted with political change.
