Is being in the European union a good thing for Britain?

Opinion is divided and there are many advantages and disadvantages commonly listed by different groups.

Some of the advantages include:

- European Common Market - free trade within the European Union. Some argue that free trade in the EU can be achieved through the EFTA, but members of the EFTA must abide by all EU laws yet they have absolutely no say in EU policy.

- Freedom of movement within the EU means that going on holiday or on another form of trip (including school visits) is much easier

- Being part of a large supranational organisation means that Britain has a greater influence with world affairs, as they both represent themselves and are represented by the EU

- The EU has ensured long-lasting peace within Europe, a continent historically known for war

- The Working Time Directive means workers are protected from exploitation, in addition consumers are granted consumer rights not seen almost anywhere else in the world

- Greater cooperation on issues of national security, including drug trafficking and cyber-crime

- A European Health Insurance Card means that if you fall ill or get injured in another EU country, you can get the same level of medical care that a citizen of that country would get.

Some disadvantages:

- Britain puts more money into the EU than it gets back

- The EU has taken away some powers, such as trade agreements and has led to a greater influx of immigrants.

- The Common Fisheries Policy has has some negative affects on the fishing industry

- The Euro has suffered from serious problems in recent years, as there was a lack of fiscal or banking union.

- EU working time directive has led to higher costs to business and higher costs to consumers.

- The EHI Card also means EU nationals can use the National Health Service to cover their medical costs.