A recent poll has revealed that a majority of Britons support the reintroduction of the death penalty in the UK. Surprisingly, Millennials emerged as the most supportive demographic, according to the poll conducted by public opinion think tank More in Common.

Public opinion on capital punishment varies based on the nature of the crime, with a whopping 70% people backing its use for serial murders or terror offenses that result in fatalities.

The survey also found that 55% of respondents support the death penalty for rapists, compared to 44% who oppose it. Similarly, a narrow majority of 51% back capital punishment for the murder of a police officer, with 49% against it.

Rise in Support for Capital Punishment

The findings reveal a significant increase in public support for the death penalty compared to a previous poll conducted in 2023. Support for its return in cases of certain crimes has risen from 50% to 55%, while opposition has fallen from 37% to 32%, as reported by The Times.

This renewed debate on capital punishment comes in the wake of the sentencing of 18-year-old Axel Rudakubana. Rudakubana received a 52-year prison sentence for the brutal murders of Alice da Silva Aguiar, Bebe King, and Elsie Dot Stancombe in Southport, as well as the attempted murder of eight others.

Generational Divides on Capital Punishment

The survey highlighted stark generational differences in attitudes toward the death penalty. Millennials, born between 1981 and 1986, show the strongest support for reinstating the death penalty, with 58% in favour. Generation Z, aged 18 to 26, is the most divided, with 45% in favour and 45% against. In contrast, the Baby Boomer generation (aged 60 to 74) shows strong support, with 58% backing capital punishment and 34% opposing it. Among those over 75, support stands at 50%, with 37% opposed.

The findings suggest a shift in public attitudes toward harsher punishments for the most severe crimes, sparking renewed discussion about the potential reintroduction of capital punishment in the UK. Whether this sentiment translates into political action remains to be seen.