Br-exit is a term being used to describe the UK leaving the EU, a combination of the words Britain and Exit… A referendum is being held on Thursday, 23 June to decide whether Britain should leave or remain in the European Union (an economic and political partnership involving 28 European countries). The minimum period after a vote to leave would be two years, however in practice it may take longer than this depending on how long negotiations take.

The British public are fairly evenly split on the subject. Those who stand in favour of Britain leaving the EU are The UK Independence Party, about half of Conservative MP’s and also several Labour MPs.

They believe that Britain is being held back by the EU, as we are charged billions of pounds per year to be a part of it and get little in return. Another key point is that we would have full border control and could more easily control the number of people coming to Britain to find work.

The people who are for staying in the EU believe that membership is very important – it makes trade within the EU easier, and they also believe that the immigrants who seek work in the UK are advantageous as they help our economy to grow. Another point is that they believe Britain’s status in the world would be more secure as a part of the EU, and if we were to leave the uncertainty of what would happen to the reputation of the UK is a dangerous prospect.

One of the main principles of EU membership is “free movement”, which means you don’t need to get a visa to go and live in another EU country. In terms of Erasmus projects and students working/studying abroad, Brexit could be seen in a negative way. It is uncertain how easily facilitated this would be, as if Britain left, the right to go and work abroad would not be as easy and supported as it currently is.

So… what do YOU think?

British, Irish and Commonwealth citizens over 18 who are resident in the UK, along with UK nationals living abroad who have been on the electoral register in the UK in the past 15 years are able to vote. If this is you – make sure you do so you can make a difference!

For more information and statistics on the effects that Brexit would potentially cause visit this link. Or to see the advantages and disadvantages click here.