Nearly six years after the United Kingdom’s departure from the European Union, public sentiment reflects a mix of frustration with the handling of Brexit and a reluctance to reconsider the decision to leave the bloc, according to a recent survey conducted in early June 2026.
The poll, which gathered responses from 2,091 British adults between June 5 and 7, reveals widespread dissatisfaction with issues such as border control, immigration management, and economic performance since the UK formally exited the EU. Despite these concerns, a significant majority of respondents remain opposed to reversing Brexit or seeking re-entry into the EU.
The survey highlights that voters continue to support the original vision of Brexit: a sovereign Britain that acts as a dynamic global trading nation, aims to substantially reduce net migration to tens of thousands annually, and strives to curb illegal immigration to near zero. Challenges such as the COVID-19 pandemic and global conflicts have impacted the economy, but many Britons are critical of the government’s handling of matters within its own control.
Andrew Hawkins, chief executive of the polling firm, noted that while frustration exists over execution, enthusiasm for rejoining the EU is minimal. “People may be frustrated by how Brexit has been handled, but they are far less enthusiastic about reversing it,” he said.
The data also underscore a generational divide. Younger voters show significantly more support for EU membership, with 58% of those aged 25 to 34 favoring rejoining and 49% of the 18 to 24 age group expressing the same view. Conversely, male respondents were more inclined to back Brexit, with 45% favoring staying out of the EU compared to 32% of women.
Political perceptions related to Brexit remain polarized. Approximately 40% of respondents believe that the political establishment conspired to prevent a full Brexit, a view held by 67% of Leave voters and 73% of those who still consider Brexit the right choice. In terms of leadership on Brexit issues, Nigel Farage is viewed as the most capable figure, with 21% naming him as the best person to deliver on Brexit promises. Among those backing Brexit, Farage’s support grows to 43%. Kemi Badenoch and Labour leader Keir Starmer tied at 7% each. Starmer was seen as most likely to foster a positive relationship with the EU, while Farage was favored for defending British interests.
Former Conservative ministers Lord John Redwood and Sir Jacob Rees-Mogg also weighed in, emphasizing the desire for a sovereign Britain able to set its own policies and expand global trade. Redwood stressed the need for lower taxes and cheaper energy, while Rees-Mogg pointed to polling that reflects a preference for conservative policies even if there is ambivalence toward the Conservative Party itself.
Overall, the survey suggests that while Brexit’s implementation has encountered notable difficulties and public impatience, the fundamental choice to exit the EU remains largely accepted among the UK population, with many urging political leaders to focus on delivering the promised benefits of Brexit rather than reconsidering the country’s membership status.
