8 things that will change if Britain leaves Europe

The result of June 23rd’s vote could change a lot for those of us living in the UK and whether you’re all for staying, support ‘Brexit’ or are still undecided, there’s a few things you should know before entering the polling station.

1. You might need a work permit to work in an EU country

Currently as a citizen who is part of the EU, you’re free to move and work wherever you so wish within Europe; if the UK decides to leave and does not to sign up for the ‘free movement of people’ be sure to expect to need a work permit/visa to work anywhere outside of Britain.

2. We would no longer be paying the EU membership fee

In 2014 the UK paid £8.4bn (Full Fact) of membership fees to stay in the EU, by leaving this yearly cost would be abolished.

3. We will more than likely lose free trade

Within the current system we can trade with other EU countries without tariffs being imposed on imports and exports, if were to leave we would no longer be able to trade charge free. And as 50% of our exports are to EU countries this could be see an increase in prices for imported products.

However it is possible an ‘amicable divorce’ can be reached, where agreements would be reached that meant we could continue to trade for free (as Norway does presently) but it is unlikely.

4. Jobs could be lost / gained

Many jobs are linked to the UK’s trade with the EU meaning if trade levels dropped because of the loss of free trade a good proportion of those jobs would be lost. However a drop in immigration due to stricter work regulations could mean more jobs become available. There is a lot of uncertainty at this point.

5. Our standing in the world will change

Departing from the EU, while still remaining part of NATO, the UN Security Council and being a nuclear power could see the UK becoming an established independent nation again, rather than part of a larger group. However the US (one of our major trading partners) has expressed its desire for us to stay in the EU as we may become less influential on our own, thus we risk losing one of our greatest allies.

6. Removing the ‘red tape’

Leaving the EU also means leaving behind its regulations, a cut in EU regulations and red tape could make it easier for businesses to flourish under Britain’s own rules.

7. Security

Leaving the EU could provide us with a higher sense of security as stronger regulations on who can enter and leave the country will be enforced. Although it is also suggested that we are stronger against threats such as terrorism as a union as it allows information to transferred more easily and culprits to be found and disciplined by a unit, the many versus the few.

8. Economy

There’s much argument lately about whether the UK’s economy will benefit from departing the EU and rise or whether it will drop. The research undertaken by the Open Europe think-tank have shown at best the UK’s GDP will rise by 1.6% in the next 15 years and at worst it could fall by 2.2%.

#brexit #politics #news