Britain continues to push against the EU.

This week, Prime Minister David Cameron “promised Britons a vote on quitting the European Union, rattling London’s biggest allies and some investors by raising the prospect of uncertainty and upheaval” (Reuters, January 23, 2013). Mr. Cameron promised a vote by the end of 2017, pending his reelection, stating “It is time for the British people to have their say. It is time for us to settle this question about Britain and Europe” (ibid.). Recent polls indicate just over half of Britons favor departing the EU.

Reactions in Europe have understandably been disappointed, but mixed. The Italian Prime Minister “agreed with Cameron on the need to make the EU more innovative and welcomed the idea of a British referendum.” The French Foreign Minister observed, “If Britain wants to leave Europe, we will roll out the red carpet,” apparently in response to a comment Mr. Cameron made inviting wealthy French to move to Britain to avoid heavy taxes (ibid.).

While no immediate actions appear likely, Bible prophecies indicate that Britain (Ephraim) will not be part of the coming European Beast power, but will instead become subjugated by it (see Hosea 5:5-15). For more information on Britain’s remarkable past and sobering future, review our booklet The United States and Great Britain in Prophecy.