Economy | Return to Briefings page

Digital entrepreneurs and online shoppers should find a big prize on offer from EU membership.

Access to the single market is the most important reason for Britain to stay in the EU. But what is the single market, and how beneficial is it for us?

There is truth to the criticism that the EU spends too much money, but it's overdone.

EU membership gives us clout in trade talks with other blocs. If we quit, we would find it hard to negotiate as equals with America and China.

How do you sweep away non-tariff barriers to trade? By passing regulations.

Bringing in EU-wide regulations can promote the single market and growth. But not all of the rules that have been adopted are necessary or good.

While the Working Time Directive is costly, the UK's ability to opt out of parts of it has limited the damage done.

The ugliest EU policy is the CAP. It absorbs 39% of the EU’s budget, and raises food prices. But it is less damaging than it used to be.

Brexit’s impact on cheap airfares is uncertain. But losing the UK’s liberalising influence in aviation is assured.