Encyclopedia of Opinion
Question

What are the options on a second Brexit referendum?

Theresa May’s Brexit deal contains little to please Brexiteers or Remainers. As it stands, it will be very difficult for Brexit to end in a way that is satisfying for anyone. Should there be a second referendum on Brexit, so that people can vote with a better understanding of their options?

Position 1 of 6
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No, there shouldn't be a second Brexit referendum

This position holds that there should not be a second Brexit referendum. It argues that the public has already spoken in the first vote, that re-running it would undermine democracy by overturning a settled decision, and that another campaign would only deepen national division.

Position 2 of 6
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It is an irrelevant debate

This position holds that debating a second Brexit referendum is irrelevant. It argues such a vote is simply not feasible—there is no time to hold one—and that what the country actually needs is a general election rather than another referendum on Brexit.

Position 3 of 6
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There should be a second Brexit referendum

This position holds that there should be a second Brexit referendum, in Britain's best interests. It argues that only a fresh vote can settle the debate, that the Leave campaign's conduct undermined the legitimacy of the first, and that the electorate that voted in 2016 is itself changing.

Position 4 of 6
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Referendum between the May plan and a hard Brexit

This position proposes a second Brexit referendum offering a choice between Theresa May's deal and a hard Brexit. It argues that the public voted to leave but not on what kind of Brexit, and that — with politicians deadlocked — only a fresh vote can settle the terms.

Position 5 of 6
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Referendum between the May plan and canceling Brexit

This position proposes a second Brexit referendum offering a choice between Theresa May's deal and cancelling Brexit altogether. It argues that now the actual deal is known, voters deserve a say on it, that opinion has shifted, and that a no-deal exit would be the worst outcome of all.

Position 6 of 6
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Referendum with all options on the ballot

This position proposes a second Brexit referendum with every option on the ballot — May's deal, a no-deal Brexit, and remaining in the EU. It argues that only a vote representing all opinions can break the political deadlock that paralysed Parliament.