EMU: Sceptics Still Ahead
Our latest MORI poll suggests that the trend in public opinion continues to move against EMU entry. The balance of opinion against EMU (that is, those opposed less those in favour) in July is similar to the peak at the time of the mid-June EU election, and well above the levels seen in 1997-98.
Our latest MORI poll suggests that the trend in public opinion continues to move against EMU entry. The balance of opinion against EMU (that is, those opposed less those in favour) in July is similar to the peak at the time of the mid-June EU election, and well above the levels seen in 1997-98.
There has been a particularly sharp anti-EMU swing in recent months among the above-average income AB and C1 social groups. The mix of improving growth, low inflation and low unemployment probably is denting the fear - strongly argued by some last year - that the UK economy would suffer if it stays outside EMU initially.
At this stage, the government still is keeping open the option of EMU entry soon after the next election. However, if the balance of public sentiment against EMU stays high over the next six-12 months, then - well before the next General Election - Labour will allow the timetable for EMU entry to slip..
UK -- Balance of Opinion for the Question: "If there were a referendum now on whether Britain should be part of a single European currency, how would you vote?", 1991 - July 1999
Economic & Market Analysis - Sterling Weekly [pdf format - 96K]
Technical details
Latest survey was carried out between 8-14 July 1999. Sample size 2,143 people. A national representative sample was used and the survey was carried out by face-to-face interviews in the respondent's home.
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