Published on 27th April 2016 by Becky Mosley

Should we stay, or should we go? The question of whether or not the UK should remain part of Europe is a hot topic. Until recently, it was thought that many Britons would be voting in favour of Boris Johnson et al, and that an exit from Europe was almost inevitable. However, President Barack Obama has reshuffled the cards of fate and potentially changed people’s minds.

What does Obama think about the UK and the EU?

The reason that many people have been thinking again about Britain being part of Europe is that Obama has taken a stance on potential future business between the United States and the UK. He has said that if we stand alone, with no ties to Europe, it is going to be very difficult for Americans to continue to do business with the United Kingdom. They will be more likely to opt for European connections, as there will potentially be less complications.

How are people reacting to this news?

Just like the debate in Scotland regarding independence, many people are taking to the bookies to have their say ahead of the referendum on Europe. Most people who have placed a bet regarding Brexit believe that it will fail, and the majority of British betters say that they believe that the UK is not going to leave Europe. Obama’s comments have only served to accelerate the rate at which people are betting that we’re going to stay.Graham Sharpe of William Hill says that since Obama has voiced his thoughts, the betting has been ‘one way traffic with an overwhelming swing towards Remain’. Sharpe has also commented on the conviction of those who are betting on the UK staying in Europe: ‘84% of the stake money we have taken – but only 37% of the individual bets – have been for Remain’.How are you going to vote on 23^rd June 2016?<