Bulk of Britons backing Nato saying it lessens chance of war, YouGov survey reveals

The vast majority of Britons support Nato, and more than half believe military alliances decrease the chance of war breaking out, a poll has revealed.

The study conducted by YouGov revealed that 83% (1,579) of Britons support the existence of the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation.

Of the 1,903 UK adults aged 16 and older surveyed, the majority of people among the older age groups held a positive view of the organisation.

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However, the survey revealed that 5% (95) did not believe in the existence of Nato, with 10% (190) having the opinion that Nato's existence increased the chance of conflict.

A fifth of people (381) believed it had no impact either way.

Nato expansion

According to the research, the majority (76% or 831) of Britons support more European countries joining Nato, with only 6% (114) opposing it.

Once again, the study revealed a more favourable view of Nato in the older generations as the over-40s were more in favour of Nato expansion into Europe.

Ensuring peace

The new study of Nato & War found that over half (53% or 1,009) of Britons think that the existence of military alliances decreases the likelihood of war taking place.

Only 15% (285) of those surveyed believe the opposite.

Purpose of Nato

According to YouGov, the views of the British people differed when it came to the question of how Nato should be used.

It reported that 61% (1,161) of people think Nato should be used only for defensive purposes.

However, 23% (438) think the organisation should also be prepared to attack countries that are considered a threat.