The UK government has agreed a post-Brexit deal on Gibraltar, unpicking another issue it’s negotiations with the bloc.
Foreign Secretary David Lammy flew to the British overseas territory late last night for talks with ministers there, before heading on to Brussels for finalising talks with the EU and Spain.
The government says the new agreement resolves the “last major unresolved issue from Brexit”, and “avoids the need” for checks on people and goods crossing the Gibraltar-Spain border, to support “prosperity in the region”.
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Around 15,000 people – more than half of Gibraltar’s workforce – cross the border daily.
The UK is hoping it will help speed up other post-Brexit discussions as it looks to reset its relationship with the bloc.
As part of the deal, the government says there will be dual border control checks for arrivals by air at Gibraltar airport, carried out by Gibraltar and Spanish officials, as well as arrivals by sea at the port.
Immigration and law and order in Gibraltar will remain the exclusive responsibility of Gibraltar’s authorities.
Spanish officials will be responsible for ensuring the integrity of the Schengen Area, in a model the government says is similar to French police operating in London’s St Pancras station.
A bespoke agreement was needed for the territory, as Spain claims Gibraltar belongs to them after the UK took control of the territory in the early 18th century.
Both Tory and Labour governments have been firm in their stance that they will not give up sovereignty of the territory to Spain.
The deal explicitly states the treaty will not impact sovereignty, and also ensure the UK has full operational autonomy for the military facilities there.
Lammy travelled to Gibraltar last night, and then Brussels. Pic: Reuters
St Pancras style checks
The government said: “Immigration and law and order in Gibraltar will remain the exclusive responsibility of Gibraltar’s authorities.
“Spanish officials will be responsible for ensuring the integrity of the Schengen Area, in a model similar to French police operating in London’s St Pancras station.”
As Sky News deputy political editor Sam Coates points out, some Eurosceptics will be unhappy with the presence of European border guards in British territory.
Foreign Secretary David Lammy said: “This government inherited a situation from the last government which put Gibraltar’s economy and way of life under threat. Today’s breakthrough delivers a practical solution after years of uncertainty.
“Alongside the government of Gibraltar, we have a reached an agreement which protects British sovereignty, supports Gibraltar’s economy and allows businesses to plan for the long-term once again.
“I thank the chief minister and his government for their tireless dedication throughout the negotiations. The UK’s commitment to Gibraltar remains as solid as the Rock itself.”
Fabian Picardo, Gibraltar’s chief minister, said he was “delighted” with the deal, and he was looking “towards a time of renewed cooperation and understanding”.
A statement from the EU side said: “The parties are confident that this Agreement will support prosperity and bring confidence, legal certainty, and stability to the lives and well-being of the people of the whole region.”
