Yes to Europe!: The 1975 Referendum and Seventies Britain

On June 5, 1975, Britain held its first national referendum to determine whether to remain in the European Community. The campaign shattered old political allegiances and triggered a far-reaching debate on Britain's place in the world. The "Stay in" campaign was led by various groups, including the Conservative Party, Labour government, farming unions, and the Confederation of British Industry. The "Get Britain Out" campaign was led by figures such as Enoch Powell and Tony Benn, as well as Scottish and Welsh nationalists. The referendum resulted in a narrow victory for the "Stay in" campaign, but the debate on Europe continued in Britain.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 522 pages
Publication date: 28 February 2019
Publisher: Cambridge University Press

On June 5, 1975, a historic national referendum took place in the United Kingdom, marking the first time that British voters were asked to decide whether the country should remain a part of the European Community. Similar to the 2016 referendum, this pivotal event shattered old political allegiances and sparked a far-reaching debate on Britain's place in the world. The campaign to remain in the EU was led by a diverse range of political parties, including the Conservative Party under the leadership of Margaret Thatcher, the Labour government, farming unions, and the Confederation of British Industry. On the other hand, those advocating for Britain's exit from the EU were represented by figures such as Enoch Powell, Tony Benn, Scottish and Welsh nationalists, and a diverse array of individuals and groups. The campaign witnessed the involvement of footballers, actors, celebrities, clergymen, students, women's groups, and even paramilitaries, adding a unique dimension to the debate.

In a comprehensive survey of 1970s Britain, this volume offers the first modern history of the referendum. It delves into the reasons behind the voters' decision to vote "Yes" to Europe and explores the factors that contributed to the outcome, which fell short of ending the European debate in the country. The book examines the social, economic, and cultural factors that shaped the referendum campaign and the various perspectives and ideologies that influenced the voters' choices. It also sheds light on the political maneuvering and negotiations that took place before and after the referendum, as well as the long-term implications of the result for Britain's relationship with the EU and its place in the global landscape.

Overall, this volume provides a valuable insight into the history and significance of the 1975 UK referendum, offering a comprehensive and nuanced analysis of a pivotal moment in British political history.

Weight: 848g
Dimension: 156 x 228 x 22 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781108442244