BRITAIN'S SHAME: New survey lays bare a huge drop in national pride in last decade

Whilst 86 per cent of respondents expressed pride in Britain's history in 2013, this figure has dropped to just 64 per cent in 2023.

Similarly, pride in the country's democracy has fallen from 69 per cent to 53 per cent over the same period.

The survey also indicated a shift in perceptions of British identity, with fewer people believing that being born in the UK or having British ancestry is crucial to being "truly British".

Despite the overall decline in national pride, the survey revealed that Britons continue to take pride in the country's cultural and sporting achievements.

Nearly 80 per cent of respondents expressed pride in Britain's accomplishments in arts and literature, whilst 77 per cent were proud of the nation's sporting achievements.

Gillian Prior, deputy chief executive at NatCen, said: "Our latest report finds Britain has become more inclusive in its attitudes towards what it means to be British."

The survey revealed notable generational differences in attitudes towards British identity.

Only 47 per cent of those born in the 1990s believe it is important to be born in the UK to be considered British, compared to 73 per cent of those born in the 1940s.

Political views also play a role, with 78 per cent of Brexit supporters believing birth in Britain is important for being "truly British", versus 45 per cent of those favouring EU membership.

The shift in attitudes towards British identity and national pride may be influenced by the country's increasing diversity and shared citizenship, according to researchers.

Researchers noted: "Perhaps this experience has encouraged people to become less exclusive in their conception of what it means to be British, and to take the view, for example, that current commitment matters more than past ancestry."