The UK and EU have reached a agreement over the future of Gibraltar, solving what the government described as the ‘last major unresolved issue from Brexit’.
People travelling between the tiny British territory – located on the southern tip of the Iberian peninsula – and neighbouring Spain will not face checks under the deal.
It was called a ‘historic agreement’ by Gibraltarian chief minister Fabian Picardo, while British Foreign Secretary David Lammy said a ‘practical solution’ had been secured.
The Foreign Office has ‘ensured Gibraltar’s interests – as part of the UK family – are at the heart of this agreement’, Lammy added.
Half the people who work in the territory, famous for its monumental rock and Barbary apes, cross the border between Spain and Gibraltar every day.
Picardo said, with the deal reached, it is now ‘time to finalise the Treaty’.
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The agreement agreed by the UK and EU following Brexit left the issue of the territory to be solved another day.
EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen welcomed the deal, writing on X: ‘It safeguards the integrity of Schengen and the Single Market, while ensuring stability, legal certainty and prosperity for the region.’
The Foreign Office said passengers arriving at Gibraltar Airport will face border checks from both Gibraltarian and Spanish officials.
In a similar approach to French police operating at London St Pancras rail station, immigration and law and order will be tackled by Gibraltar while the integrity of the Schengen Area will be handled by Spain.
Lammy said: ‘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.’
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