On the 23rd June 2016, UK citizens will be asked the following question:

“Should the United Kingdom remain a member of the European Union or leave the European Union?”

For St. George's School of English it’s important that we consider the impact of the referendum towards our clients throughout the EU.

What is the immediate impact of a vote to leave the EU? This vote is not the action to leave. There will be no significant change for the next 2+ years after the vote as we don’t leave the EU until the negotiation is managed. If the UK leaves the EU at all.

We understand leaving the EU has raised some concerns to our clients and students, below we will try and answer those questions with the information we have:

Will the UK leave the EU?

Latest opinion polls show ‘NO’. The main messages coming from our government, UK based global companies, banks and professional organisations believe we are stronger in the EU. The weight of the support to stay overwhelms the support to leave. (source: http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-politics-32810887 ).

The general opinions of majority so far are that the UK is stronger, safer and better off being part of Europe.

How long will it take for Britain to leave the EU?

This was a question asked by many people. The minimum period after a vote to leave would be two years. During that time Britain would continue to abide by EU treaties and laws, but not take part in any decision-making, as it negotiated a withdrawal agreement and the terms of its relationship with the now 27 nation block. In practice it may take longer than two years, depending on how the negotiations go. The expectations are anywhere between 2 and 10 years.

If the UK leave, how will it impact the St George's?

We do NOT foresee any major impact to our school if we leave the EU. People travelling to visit and study in the UK (privately) is not part of any parties referendum agenda. The UK thrives on tourism and restricting the ‘Free Movement’ agreement would greatly impact the economy.

The cost of studying in the UK would not see any dramatic change, our school prices are not dictated by any government policies. There is a possibility of travel costs rising, but no more than the usual annual inflation.

There are various sources of information available on the subject. In summary, experts say the UK will remain part of Europe.

#EUReferendum #referendum #travel #traveltoengland #Englandandreferendum #EUeconomy #studyingEnglishinEngland #travellingtoEngland #Britain #EuropeanUnion #StGeorgesSchoolofEnglish #pauldunn