Cultural differences, not economic factors, are the main objection to Turkey becoming a member of the European Union (EU), according to a new survey.

In the poll, people from Britain, France, Germany and Poland were asked their opinion Turkey’s possible EU membership. Forty per cent cited cultural differences as the main bar to Turkey’s entry, with many claiming the country’s Muslim culture was the reason for this.

Just 26.8 per cent said their objection was because of economic factors and a similar number named political reasons.

Turkey already conducts half of its trade with the EU following the establishment of a customs union. The poor performance of the lira against the pound and euro has made the country an affordable and popular destination for expats investing in international property.

Most respondents believed that Turkey’s membership would increase the EU’s influence over the Muslim world, which includes emerging markets in the Middle East.

Significantly the largest proportions of those who believe Turkey’s entry into the EU would be positive are part of the younger generation. Over-65’s were least likely to see the benefits of the move suggesting that attitudes towards the country are beginning to change.

The survey was conducted by the European Studies Centre of Bosphorus University.

Written by Jamie Musk.