Majority of Brexit Voters Support Free Movement for Single Market Access, Poll Finds

A majority of Brexit voters now support reinstating free movement in exchange for single market access, according to a European Council on Foreign Relations (ECFR) poll of 9,000 people across the UK and five EU countries. The study reveals growing public support on both sides for stronger EU-UK ties amid changing global dynamics, including Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and Donald Trump’s election as US president.

Among Leave voters, 54%—including 59% in “red wall” constituencies—favor free movement for EU-UK citizens, reflecting shifts in immigration attitudes post-2016. Across all UK voters, 68% back this exchange, with majority support across political parties except Reform UK. The report also highlights support for a youth mobility scheme, which EU leaders seek but Prime Minister Keir Starmer has resisted.

In Europe, pluralities in Germany, Poland, Spain, and other countries advocate closer ties with the UK, especially for economic and security benefits. Public opinion contrasts with cautious government stances, urging both sides to pursue an “ambitious reset.”

The poll finds Britons increasingly view EU cooperation as essential for managing migration, security, climate change, and countering global powers like the US and China. Across Europe, citizens favor concessions for closer security collaboration and limited UK access to the single market.

With 50% of Britons prioritizing EU relations over the US, ECFR director Mark Leonard calls for leaders to align with public sentiment, emphasizing mutual strength through renewed partnerships.