The Engineer

Last week's poll: Breaking the Brexit deadlock

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In light of parliament's failure to find a way forward on Brexit, we asked our readers which direction they would like to see the process going. 

Our poll had more than 1,000 respondents, with a no-deal exit the most popular choice, garnering 46 per cent of the vote. Despite the fact that no-deal is widely accepted as being the worst possible outcome both for the EU and the UK, it appears many have grown tired of the farcical Brexit process and yearn for the perceived simplicity of a clean break. It remains to be seen, however, if such an outcome would actually resolve any of the current issues, or if the UK would inevitably end up back at the negotiating table in a position of diminished strength. Nonetheless, it is clear that there is substantial support for walking away and dealing with the consequences as they arise.

The next most popular option was a second referendum, the confirmatory 'people's vote' that would either validate a negotiated deal or see Article 50 revoked and the UK remaining in the EU. With 39 per cent of respondents preferring this option, it also carries substantial support. Prime minister Theresa May has repeatedly rejected calls for the question to be put back to the people, but Labour's position seems to change by the hour, depending on which party member happens to be in front of camera. While many are wary of the impact of another referendum campaign, others see it as the only way to move forward with any validity after almost three years of political chaos.

The other options available polled much weaker, with just 4 per cent favouring a general election and the same number backing more indicative voting, despite the latter option coming extremely close to finding a majority in the Commons. Ahead of both was 'none of the above', chosen by 7 per cent of respondents.

The conversation will remain open in our comments section below. Tell us why you voted the way you did and how you think the process will unfold over the coming days. Will Corbyn and May reach an unlikely agreement that will pass the Commons? Are a longer extension and European elections inevitable? Or will the UK crash out of the EU this coming Friday at 11pm? Remember to keep the conversation civil and please read our comment guidelines before posting.