Abstract copyright UK Data Service and data collection copyright owner.

To examine accommodation to a fait accompli by contrasting attitudes held in 1971 with those held in 1975 and, by examining what changes occurred in each instance once the decision had been taken.

Main Topics:

Attitudinal/Behavioural Questions Two questionnaires were administered. A: 2 weeks before the June 1975 referendum; B: 3 weeks after the June 1975 referendum. A. Only: Voting intention in referendum 1975 and in the next General Election B. Only: Vote in referendum (reasons if no vote), when decision on direction of vote was made, whether initial decision changed, whether information about EEC was actively sought. Opinion of referendum campaign/impartiality of television channels and programmes. Particular influences on respondent's vote. Respondent's opinion of issues warranting future referenda, assessment of relative degree of different sources of influence on referendum vote (government, own political party, own union, the press, TV and radio, workmates, friends, members of family). Opinion of television, timing and frequency of viewing. A. and B. Opinions on the political and economic situation in Britain. Respondents were asked to agree/disagree with a number of phrases describing 'Britain Today'. Priorities, goals and values in personal lifestyle. Attitudes towards France and Germany, expected changes if Britain were to stay in/come out of the Common Market. Political and sociological views of respondents, voting pattern in last 2 general elections, attitude to EEC in 1971. Opinion on relation of management to employees, attitude to comprehensive schools. Background Variables Age, sex, marital status, social class, occupation (respondent and spouse). Educational qualifications, any present study, school leaving age, trade union membership, home ownership.

Volunteer, not representative, but with a mix of social class, age and geographical spread

Postal survey