On February 17, 1972, the British Parliament made a historic decision, approving the United Kingdom’s membership in European Communities to advance European integration. This momentous vote marked a significant shift in the UK’s relationship with Europe after many years of disagreements and failed attempts to open cooperation with the European Economic Community (EEC), which ultimately became known as the European Union (EU).

In 1961, the UK applied to join the EEC, but French President Charles de Gaulle blocked the process because he was worried about the UK’s ties to America and its Commonwealth partners. The UK began to rethink its options because West Germany had built its economic power while the nation faced difficult times. After de Gaulle passed away in 1970, the UK knew exactly which direction to take for EEC membership.

In 1971, the Westminster Parliament deliberated about European Community membership and approved it with 356 votes against 244. On February 17, 1972, Parliament approved the entry into the European Communities, with 309 votes supporting and 301 opposing it. On January 1, 1973, the UK formally joined the EEC after the Parliament approved this key vote.

After joining the European Communities, the UK took its first steps toward deeper economic partnerships with European nations. The people voted to stay in the EEC during a 1975 referendum as 67% approved the European Communities. The UK’s connection with the EU sparked conflicts that culminated in the 2016 Brexit vote, a momentous decision when citizens chose to exit the European Union.

The decision made by British voters in 1972 was not just a vote but a defining moment that would shape the nation’s economic and political trajectory for decades to come. It set the stage for significant developments in the UK’s relationship with Europe, marking a turning point in its history.