The marriage was unhappy from the start. Britain’s flirtation with Europe began with two rejections in the 1960s. Even after the union was consummated, passion was soon spent, followed by arguments, acrimony and eventual divorce. With one partner tugging for ever-closer union and the other tugging against, it was never popular. They range from ardent enthusiasm, through ardent scepticism, to possible leave and reluctant remain.

Source: The Times January 25, 2020 12:00 UTC