The United Kingdom has voted to leave the European Union, a historic decision that will reshape the nation^ place in the world and is already upsetting governments across the continent. The surprising turn of events caused a fall in the financial markets, with the value of the British pound and stock prices falling.
The campaign to leave the EU won by 52 percent to 48 percent. More than 17 million people in the UK—made up of England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland — voted to sever ties with the EU, a Political and economic partnership comprising 28 countries across Europe. About 16.1 million voted to remain.
The result raises serious questions about the future of the EU. The British go out from the union-nicknamed Brexit — is just the latest in a series of crises to annoy the EU. The alliance is already dealing with economic bad results from the global financial collapse of 2008, along with a record arrival refugees to Europe due in part to Syria’s civil war.
Some British citizens believe the EU has too much influence over Britain’s authority and that the country’s industries would be more profitable on their own. Others want Britain to reclaim control of its borders and reduce how many people enter the country to work They say the EU’s open-border policy allows unlimited numbers of immigrants to come in from poorer nations—and that those people take jobs from British workers. Those who campaigned to stay in the EU, meanwhile, argued that the UK and its economy is stronger within the alliance.
Now the UK will become the first nation to leave the European Union. The decision is a huge blow the alliance because Britain is one of its most powerful members. “The main impact will be massive disorder in the EU system for the next two years,” said Thierry de Montbrial, of the French Institute of International Relations. “There will be huge political change costs on how to solve the British exit.” The decision could also have a domino effect, he warned, with other countries following the UK’s lead and exiting the EU.
1. What does the underlined word “sever” mean?
A. Settle down. B. Take over.
C. Break off. D. Build up.
2. Most British wanted to leave the EU because they believe .
A. they can help immigrants to create more job chances
B. they expect the EU to have an open border policy
C. they want to set up their own authority
D. they will lead a better life on their own
3. What did Brexit make Thierry worry about?
A. More countries will do as the UK does.
B. Scotland win their independence from the EU.
C. The EU will pay back more money to the UK.
D. The economy in the EU will suffer loss.
4. What might be the most suitable title for the passage?
A. The UK Wins Independence with Votes
B. The UK Votes to Leave the European Union
C. The UK Makes a Historic Decision Again
D. The UK Remains Separated from the World