The majority of voters believe the possibility of some level of violence against MPs is a "price worth paying" to get their way on Brexit, a survey has found.
Research from Cardiff University and the University of Edinburgh discovered both Leavers and Remainers believed such a possibility could be "worth it" if it meant their views prevailed.
YouGov surveyed 1,594 adults aged 18 and over in England, 1,503 in Wales, and 1,006 in Scotland between September 27 and October 3.
The survey's co-director Professor Richard Wyn Jones said he was "genuinely shocked" at the results.
The findings come after MPs on both sides of the debate said they are facing rising levels of abuse and threats from members of the public.
Based on polling by YouGov, the study revealed that 71 per cent of Leave voters in England, 60 per cent in Scotland and 70 per cent in Wales believed violence towards MPs was justifiable for Brexit.
This compares with 58 per cent of English Remain voters, 53 per cent from Scotland and 56 from Wales.
The majority of voters on both sides also said protests were worth it if it secures their desired outcome.
Professor Wyn Jones said: "It's not often that one finds oneself shaken by research findings, but in this case it's hard to not be genuinely shocked.
"Not only by the fact that so many think that violence is a likely consequence of Brexit, but that so many on either side of the Brexit divide seem to think that such events might be 'worth it' in order to secure their preferred outcome."
"Given that we appear to be on the brink of another general election in which further polarisation could be a deliberate campaign strategy for some parties, these findings should give all of us pause for thought and underline the importance of responsible and measured debate."
Additional reporting by Press Association.
