The Nearest Brexit is Behind EU
I asked 3 teachers with 3 different nationalities (French, English, Australian) about the EU, to
see how their nationality may impact their decision to stay or leave, and their opinions
surrounding the subject.
As well as Britain’s referendum on 23rd June 2016, our school, St Margaret’s has also
decided to have a referendum, to see what our school thinks about the EU
Are you in or out?
I am definitely in. It would make our lives so much more difficult if we left the EU. As I am a
french citizen, it would make travelling back and forth very difficult.
I am undecided, because I have an issue with the EU’s control over Britain and the
sovereignty, but I can see the benefits of staying in the EU, because of free trade and free
movements.
In, because I think that given the current world climate we need to be pulling together rather
than pulling apart.
Do you think that your political influences have impacted your decision
No, I don't think it has, I think it has been influenced by my own convictions. I see it not only
as a french citizen who moved to the UK 23 years ago, but thinking of the other British
expats, who have decided to live in Europe.
No, it is what I have read, and debates that I have seen, not the positions that has persuaded
me to either stay or leave.
Given that I am Australian and not British, I am not influenced by British politics. I am trying
to look at it as a global citizen, rather than focusing on nationality
Do you believe that if we leave the EU, we will have less chance of a Paris style terrorist
attack?
Not really, I think that at the moment, there are a lot of links between the organisations who
are involved in monitoring the situation, especially the movement of people who might
represent a threat in Europe.
The problem is that terrorist attacks could be home grown, so leaving the EU would not
irradiate the problem. I do believe it would be easier to deal with if Britain was contained.
No, I think that Britain's’ status as a global power along with America and other European
countries will mean that they will always be a target. I don't think we should let terrorism
control our relationship with other European countries.
What is your opinion of the fact that we pay £65 million a day, in order to stay in the
EU, and the fact that it is draining the British Government?
I personally think that the EU lives just beyond the financial aspect. This is just one side of
the EU. This needs to be balanced with the different economical and free movement
agreements signed between the EU members.
I do have an issue with how much we pay, and I would rather we spent that on Britain.
I think that I would need to see how much money is made in trade, to be able to judge that
cost. A big part of staying in the EU is the open trade borders.
If we leave the EU, what do you think will happen to Britain?
At the moment, it is difficult to say, as we would only be speculating the outcome.
That is a difficult question. Whatever happens, would not happen immediately. If there was
anything that was negative it would not be an immediate change. Let’s hope we can deal with
the problems. But saying that, we have to look at the final picture, and see how we are
perceived by the rest of the world.
I don't think anyone can say for certain, and it is the uncertainty that is causing the problem.
I do not think it will be a ‘doomsday’ type of problem, but it won’t help international
relations.
Do you agree with ‘Jobs being given to British people’ as a pro for leaving the EU (this
is a UKIP view)?
Not necessarily, because I'm sure people would apply to be dual-nationalised, or nationalised
British. It all depends your definition of the word ‘British’.
I think it is likely.
As an immigrant, I think that whilst it is important that British people have jobs, it is short
sighted to completely disregard allowing immigrants to work in Britain as they fill job
shortages, as in my field in teaching. Many immigrants are hard workers, and contribute to
society. I personally have never experienced any abuse for being an immigrant, but I do
believe that is because I am from a Commonwealth country, compared to people from
Eastern European countries.
What do you think will be the impact on trade if we decide to leave the EU?
Trade would be affected hugely because of the bilateral agreement that would no longer
apply.
I would hope that they maintain the trade links that we have. For me it is about retaining
control on Britain, and keeping links with Europe, and the global economy.
I think that it will definitely impact on trade negatively, as it will decrease. Also the period of
uncertainty post exit, will have an effect on trade in the short term. There could be a long
term effect, but no-one is sure.
Do you believe Boris Johnson was right to so publicly state his view?
One of the more precious values is expression without fearing persecution. I think he was
able to say his view. Whether there was an ulterior motive to his decision, that was a different
matter.
Yes, everybody should have a freedom of speech.
I think it is great to have a clear opinion, however, I would like to see the information clearly
stated, so that the general public could decide for themselves
After a recent article from ‘The Sun’ Newspaper, it has been debated whether ‘the
Queen backs Brexit’ do you agree with this statement.
I think they are purely claims, and should not have made the front page.
I don't read The Sun, and I am not interested in anything that they have to say.
I would be very cautious to agree with any statements that don't come directly from the
Queen.
What do you think the outcome of our school’s referendum?
I would HOPE that the school would vote to remain in the EU. I am thinking of the school
trips that would be organised. They would become quite challenging, and would be heavy in
paperwork!
I imagine, most people will say to stay.
If I was going to bet, I would say that the majority would say to stay in the EU.
Written by Tamzin Kraftman