Latvians in UK give their «Brexit» verdicts

Take note – story published 7 years ago

Latvians living and working in the United Kingdom overwhelmingly want the UK to stay in the European Union after a crucial June 23 referendum, LTV said Monday.

Reporting from the West Country metropolis of Bristol, which has a longstanding Latvian community and which recently hosted a Latvian cultural day in the city center, various local Latvians gave their views.

Pensioner Inta Gulda told LTV: "I'd like things to stay as they are... and I think most Brits think that way too."

Elina Bite said she was also in favor of remaining in the EU.

"There has been a great deal of discussion about what to do - to be for or against. There are various views. But for me the pluses [of staying] are much stronger than the minuses, and the majority of British people know that too," she said.

Zane Piese said: "What will be, will be," while expressing concern that an exit vote could see the value of Sterling plummet.

British Pakistani Munavar Asrafa, who is married to a Latvian, told LTV: "I think we are better off in the EU" with wife Gunita saying that Brexit would lead to uncertainty about the future.

With a Latvian mother and British father, Andra Zobens-Ista of London;s Latvian choir seems perfectly positioned to offer a view.

"I really hope the British public will vote to stay. I think that is what will happen after to talking to people about this subject. 

Meanwhile the British Embassy in Riga is reminding Brits in Latvia that they have the opportunity to have their say in the referendum. A PDF has been made available online to download outlining the terms of the referendum and the main arguments for and against EU membership.  

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