At the same time, support for further EU integration is also slipping in the eurozone’s two biggest economies and advocates, Germany and France. This drop in support within Europe’s major economies could impact the pace and extent of further integration across the EU.
The findings, drawn from Grant Thornton’s annual Future of Europe report, show that when asked if they would like to see further integration between EU member states, the majority (57 per cent) of British business leaders say that they do not want to see any further integration at all. This is comfortably the highest level of opposition across any European economy – the next highest being the Netherlands at 26 per cent. Furthermore, when asked about the future of the euro, just 17 per cent of British businesses said they are keen to see it expand. This is an increase on last year but still significantly lower than in most other European countries. Scott Barnes, CEO of Grant Thornton UK LLP, said: “As the debate rages over the UK’s position in Europe, its business community has spoken unequivocally about the prospect of further integration. I wouldn’t say that the UK figures equate to an ‘anti-Europe’ stance, especially with the pocket of support emerging for greater European integration, but they certainly show a greater reticence to further ties than the rest of our European neighbours. “As the UK Government’s efforts to renegotiate the terms of its EU membership begin in earnest, it’s vital that the business voice is heard. The message being delivered loud and clear is that British firms have serious reservations about greater EU integration.” However, business support for further EU integration is picking up in Ireland (50 per cent last year to 77 per cent this year). By Shané Schutte
We use cookies on our website to give you the most relevant experience by remembering your preferences and repeat visits. By clicking “Accept”, you consent to the use of ALL the cookies.
This website uses cookies to improve your experience while you navigate through the website. Out of these cookies, the cookies that are categorized as necessary are stored on your browser as they are essential for the working of basic functionalities of the website. We also use third-party cookies that help us analyze and understand how you use this website. These cookies will be stored in your browser only with your consent. You also have the option to opt-out of these cookies. But opting out of some of these cookies may have an effect on your browsing experience.
Necessary cookies are absolutely essential for the website to function properly. This category only includes cookies that ensures basic functionalities and security features of the website. These cookies do not store any personal information.
Any cookies that may not be particularly necessary for the website to function and is used specifically to collect user personal data via analytics, ads, other embedded contents are termed as non-necessary cookies. It is mandatory to procure user consent prior to running these cookies on your website.