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What now? Young Manchester voters react to Brexit

Young people may have voted overwhelmingly to stay in the European Union, but that wasn't the the way the result went. Before the referendum, we spoke to some young voters across Greater Manchester who told us their reasons for wanting in or out of the European Union. We went back to them after the result was announced to get their reaction to Brexit and the political fallout.

Carl Bridge, 24, Articulated Dump Truck Driver, Chorley:

Remain

I am unhappy and believe we’ve made the wrong decision. I am worried about the possibility of a recession. However, a drop [in the value of the pound] was always going to happen once the result was confirmed. I guess we just need to have faith that we can strengthen the value of the pound outside the EU. Hopefully in five years we will be stronger and more financially independent, with a better quality of living and improved healthcare.

I couldn't care less about Cameron’s resignation, the less I say about that guy the better. I have a feeling that either Boris or Gove will replace him.


Kaia Williams, 23, Model Architect, Bolton:

Leave

My immediate reaction was shock. I was quite sure Britain would remain in the EU. I think it's too early to tell whether or not we have made the right decision. I don't think Britain will face another recession though, as I think things will continue to stay relatively the same as before as we enter this two year negotiation period. Like most people I'm very unsure of what to expect over the next few years. With four more countries within the EU now calling for their own referendums there might not be an EU for much longer.

Cameron's resignation was pretty inevitable following the Brexit win. As for who will take his place as prime minister, again, I'm unsure, although, I do think a general  election will follow shortly.


Miraj Abdullah, 23, Aerospace Engineer, Bolton:

Remain

I don't believe Britain has made the right decision. To be honest, I believe that this vote simply shouldn’t have happened when it did. It's safe to say that the general population, myself included, aren't that knowledgeable on the EU. But, when you have leading EU experts urging voters to remain, it's clear to me that the wrong decision has been made. I can see the Human Rights Act being scrapped, and being replaced with the British Bill of Rights. I can see trade unions ending up with a fraction of the power they currently possess. I can see a disenfranchised body of voters who have finally had enough of austerity based policies, and the flat out lying from politicians. But, I can also see Jeremy Corbyn as the new prime minister, which gives me hope for Britain!

It was probably necessary for the Conservatives [for David Cameron to resignation]. They can't have a pro-EU leader in a post Brexit landscape. I feel like Boris Johnson is probably next in line, being popular with grassroots Conservatives or possibly Theresa May, both further Right than David himself. Anyone but Michael Gove!


Benjamin Monks, 22, Paralegal, Bolton:

Remain

I am stunned by today’s decision; Britain has not made the right decision. We all knew that the Stock Market would take a hit. Hopefully the Bank of England, and the rest of the private sector, was prepared to avoid a recession. However, I am full of doubt that we are prepared for this. 

David Cameron’s political gamble didn’t pay off for him, so I think it was his only decision left to resign. Out of the Tories to take his place, I would have to put Boris as my favourite to replace him, although Theresa May is another possibility. None of these fill me with great confidence however. 

I do not know where Britain will be in five years’ time. Outside the EU definitely, but in what form remains to be seen. 


Jake Whitby, 23, Business Director, Bury:

Remain

Initially I was in shock about today’s result, but after a coffee and a cigarette, I realised it isn't at all surprising. It is upsetting, scary even, but not surprising based on the level of debate running up to the vote. I don't think it was the right decision, or even a very democratic vote! Young people should have been given the opportunity to vote, and the information provided should have been far more impartial.

I’m concerned about the financial future for Britain, especially with Scotland and Ireland now both seeking Referendums for their own "sovereignty." But, I don't really think this will be noticeable immediately. I would imagine it'll be rocky for the next two to six years, or so, before we see a real reactionary change with regard to us leaving, and potentially setting up new trade agreements. I think we'll still be in the transition stage for the next 5-10 years, and I don't see it being particularly pretty.