The UK’s proposed referendum on Europe would test British commitment to the European Union

How can European states test popular commitment to the European Union? Richard Rose assesses the use of referendums to gain consent from European citizens for the integration process. While three quarters of member states have held at least one referendum on Europe, the UK is notable for allowing major changes in the powers of government to be approved by a simple majority in parliament. He argues that even if the current clamour in the UK for a referendum is unsuccessful, the issue of Europe is unlikely to go away without pro-EU politicians making a positive case for Britain’s membership.