Gibraltar: UK-EU Negotiations

Question

The Shadow Minister questioned whether the proposed agreements would compromise sovereignty, include Schengen border checks, align with EU rules, and involve joint UK-Spanish management of Gibraltar’s airport. He raised concerns about blue card holders' rights and sought clarity on legislative processes and potential referendums.

Question

I thank the hon. Member for Stone (Sir William Cash) for securing this urgent question. I draw attention to my declaration as a shadow Minister and a member of the all-party parliamentary group on Gibraltar. Labour’s commitment to Gibraltar is unwavering. Since I have been in this role, I have met Chief Minister Fabian Picardo and his Ministers, visited the Rock and Campo, and discussed these matters in Madrid. Gibraltar is integral to UK history and future with robust democratic institutions and a dynamic economy. The sovereignty and self-determination of Gibraltar are not up for debate. We believe in the right of Gibraltarians to choose their own future, and this must be the bedrock of any negotiations with Spain and the EU. These negotiations have gone on longer than anticipated, and it is critical that the Government work hard to get a good deal over the line providing clarity and stability for Gibraltar’s people, businesses, and communities.

Question

Does the Minister recognise our group’s visits to Gibraltar since the Brexit process and keeping regular touch with people on the Rock, their businesses, and the Government of Gibraltar? Does he agree that ultimately, only Gibraltarians are best placed to judge what is in Gibraltar’s interests, and a British Government must protect their interests at all times? Does he also agree that close co-operation between His Majesty’s Government of the United Kingdom and Gibraltar is recognised on both sides, and a pragmatic solution recognising Gibraltar’s unique geographical position is necessary and achievable?

Question

I am delighted to hear cross-party support for nations choosing their own future, but the UK has managed to trash its international reputation. Will the Minister let us know how much Brexit has cost Gibraltar so far? Will he promise this House that the Government will stick to agreements and negotiate in the interests of Gibraltar’s people?

Question

Will the Minister assure this House that the UK Government will not agree to any treaty compromising UK sovereignty and remain steadfast in their support for Gibraltar? There is a large Jewish community in Gibraltar, and significant antisemitism from the Spanish Government led to diplomatic personnel recall three months ago. Does he agree it is important in our negotiations with the EU to respect all of Gibraltar’s people's sovereignty?

Question

Alongside supporting the sovereignty of Gibraltar’s people and their right to self-determination, we need to recognise 96% did not vote for Brexit. Will he clarify there is no conflict between supporting sovereignty and supporting alignment?

Question

Can the Minister explain his assessment of the attitude of the European Union towards Gibraltar’s continuing sovereignty, bearing in mind Spain’s long-standing ambition to infringe that sovereignty?

Question

I thank the hon. Member for Stone for securing this urgent question. Alongside supporting Gibraltar’s sovereignty and self-determination, we need to recognise that 96% of Gibraltarians did not vote for Brexit. When he talks about giving them a voice, perhaps he needs to listen to why they need that voice. I am struck by what the Minister said about the value of a level playing field and the concept of an alignment of trade, economic rights, and standards encompassing that level playing field.

Question

By my reckoning, my hon. Friend has said no fewer than five times that the British Government will not agree to anything compromising British sovereignty. However, it is clear from the letter from the Minister for Europe, my hon. Friend the Member for Aldershot (Leo Docherty), that travellers arriving in Gibraltar will have to pass through Schengen immigration arrangements. How can this be the case without being incompatible with British sovereignty?

Question

During my visits to Gibraltar, including recently with the excellent armed forces parliamentary scheme, I appreciated not merely that Gibraltar is an incredible place but also the firm commitment of Gibraltarians to uphold their sovereignty. What assessment has the Minister made of the ongoing impact of uncertainty on the economy of the Rock? What steps are being taken to catalyse growth in the region?

Question

As the House will be aware, Goole is twinned with Gibraltar. The clear message from Gibraltar was the importance of a resolution to border issues, particularly for Spanish workers who earn their living there. Will the Minister confirm that any arrangement will not make any difference to the rights of a British national to live and work in Gibraltar?

Question

The Minister’s commitment is appreciated. Will all efforts be made to continue our valued relationship with Gibraltar, as a British overseas territory with the same rights as everywhere else?

Question

What is my hon. Friend’s assessment of the joint declaration signed with the British overseas territories? Does it provide a strong basis for future cooperation, including with Gibraltar?

Question

Does the Minister agree that it is important to respect Gibraltar’s determination to remain British while also respecting their elected government? We must continue to work hand in glove with Gibraltar.

Question

Given ongoing questions about sovereignty and blue card holders in Gibraltar, will the Minister ensure that the agreement receives full scrutiny by the European Scrutiny Committee?