The Complex History of Britains Membership in the European Union

Introduction:

The debate around Britain’s membership in the European Union (EU) is deeply rooted in historical context and political drivers. This article aims to dissect the intricate journey of Britain's involvement and eventual separation from the EU, addressing key moments in history, motivations for joining, and the reasons behind the decision to leave.

Joining the EEC: Not Always by Choice

The question of whether Britain ever truly wanted to join the European Economic Community (EEC), the precursor to the EU, is subject to much scrutiny. While certain elements of the government, particularly under Prime Minister Ted Heath, were in favor of joining, it was not a guaranteed decision. The EEC was not included in either the Conservative or Labour manifestos for the 1970 general election. Harold Wilson, the then-leader of the Labour Party, did promise a referendum on membership during the 1974 election campaign, portraying the issue as a democratic decision to be made by the British people.

However, the actual vote did not occur until 1975, when the British people were presented with a fait accompli. The idea that a 1972 referendum could have resulted in a closer decision, even potentially resulting in a small "No" majority, highlights the fateful nature of the 1975 referendum. By the time of the 1975 referendum, the EEC had evolved into a more integrated and federal structure, with significant powers over member states' laws and constitutions. This evolution transformed the EEC into a very different entity from what was initially envisaged.

Britain's Resistance and the Evolution of the EEC

The British government initially attempted to resist the increasing federalization of the EEC through negotiation. However, the control held by France and Germany were such that British resistance was not always successful. By 2016, the EEC had become a Federal Union with a Federal Government, exerting increasing influence over member states. The British decision to leave the EU in 2016 reflected a broader sentiment among the population that this level of centralization and control was no longer acceptable.

Despite initial membership in the "Common Market," often seen as merely a trading arrangement, the EEC evolved into a more controlling entity that resembled a "United States of Europe." This transformation was not aligned with the original conception of the UK joining the EEC. The UK's membership shift from a trading arrangement to a more controlling structure contributed significantly to the eventual decision to leave the EU.

The Reasons for Joining and Leaving the EU

When the UK joined the EEC, the primary motivations were improved reciprocal trade agreements, better travel arrangements between member states, increased workforce mobility, access to cheap loans and grants to boost country infrastructure and other capital investments, and the chance to gain more influence within Europe through the appointment of Members of the European Parliament (MEPs).

However, the reasons for leaving the EU in 2016 were more nuanced. The UK decided to leave due to a perceived lack of democratic control and dictatorial elements in EU governance. The unrestricted movement of unqualified immigrants from Eastern Europe, seeking benefits without contributing substantially, was also a significant factor. These factors led to a referendum, where a small majority voted to leave, asserting their democratic right to shape their own destiny.

Conclusion

The complex history of Britain’s membership in the European Union is a reflection of the evolving nature of the EEC and later, the EU. The decision to join and leave the EU was influenced by a range of political, economic, and social factors. Understanding this history is crucial for comprehending the current dynamics of British-European relations and the ongoing challenges and opportunities that arise from this membership.