Researcher: Shock at support for use of violence

A majority of voters believe violence against MPs is a “price worth paying” to get their way on Brexit, an academic survey has found.

The report by researchers from Cardiff and Edinburgh universities found both Leavers and Remainers believed violence could be “worth it” if it meant their views prevailed.

Survey co-director Professor Richard Wyn Jones said he was “genuinely shocked” at the findings.

The survey, based on polling by YouGov, found 71% of Leave voters in England, 60% in Scotland and 70% in Wales believed violence towards MPs was a “price worth paying” for Brexit.

Among Remain voters, 58% in England, 53% in Scotland and 56% in Wales considered violence towards MPs was a “price worth paying” for Britain to stay in the EU.

Voters on both sides said protests in which members of the public are badly injured were a “price worth paying” to secure their desired outcome.

Among Leavers, it was 69% in England, 62% in Scotland and 70% in Wales. On the Remain side, it was 57% in England, 56% in Scotland and 57% in Wales.

The findings come among concerns among MPs on both sides of the debate that they face increasing abuse and threats from the public.

Professor Wyn Jones said: “Given that we appear to be on the brink of another general election in which further polarisation could be a deliberate campaign strategy for some parties, these findings should give all of us pause for thought and underline the importance of responsible and measured debate.”