Poll finds broad Canadian support for closer ties with the EU

A poll found that nearly eight in 10 Canadians surveyed backed associate ties with the EU if they strengthened trade and defence co-operation.

The proposal would stop short of full membership, and the EU currently has no legal category for associate members.

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen raised the idea as Prime Minister Mark Carney sought to strengthen ties with Europe and diversify Canada’s trade amid a tariff dispute with the United States.

Some experts say the support may reflect frustration with the United States more than a lasting wish to join the EU.

Full EU membership usually involves giving up some national decision-making, while the pollster said Canadians appear more comfortable with co-operation that preserves sovereignty.

U.S. President Donald Trump warned that associate membership could be seen as hostile and lead to more tariffs, but one in three respondents said his comments made them more likely or somewhat more likely to support EU membership.

Carney says any new alliance would go to Parliament for debate and a vote; half of those polled said a House of Commons vote would be enough, while 21 per cent favoured a referendum.