Freshwater Strategy partnered with the Institute of Economic Affairs on a major new research project: British Attitudes to Economic Growth.
Freshwater Strategy led the research behind the project — bringing our polling and qualitative expertise to understand what the public really thinks about the UK economy.
Some of the key findings include:
WRONG DIRECTION: Two thirds of British voters believe the UK is on the wrong track, revealing deep public pessimism about the state of the economy.
DESIRE FOR GROWTH, THOUGH IMPLICATIONS UNCLEAR: 87% of Britons believe the UK should focus more on economic growth. Yet most cannot clearly define what growth means, and only 52% believe they would personally benefit from it.
BRITS OVERESTIMATE NATION’S WEALTH: When we asked people how rich they thought Britain is compared to the US, their answers were telling. Britons place the UK as the 7th wealthiest among US states. But in reality, it ranks last, behind all 50, including Mississippi, the poorest US state. Globally, the UK sits 21st in GDP per capita, behind the US, Australia, Switzerland, Singapore, and Germany. Most Britons had no idea, and over a quarter described themselves as shocked when they found out.
The findings point to a country that wants change, but isn’t yet convinced it’s coming.
Click here to read the full report.
Click here to access the full results, including methodology, sample size, and fieldwork dates.
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