Questions & Answers
Q1
Direct Answer
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Context
Following a recent visit to Gibraltar, the MP is concerned about the strategic importance of the naval base and the impact of treaty provisions.
I ask the House to note my relatively recent visit to Gibraltar. The naval base in Gibraltar is of high strategic importance. The decision to allow Spanish authorities to monitor equipment going to British military facilities is concerning. Will the Minister guarantee that the treaty will neither directly nor indirectly limit the operations, access or security of the UK naval base?
I can absolutely assure the hon. Gentleman of that. We would not have signed off the deal without those assurances. The Ministry of Defence, the Defence Secretary and others were fully involved at all stages of the process. We have been very clear that the treaty protects the operational autonomy of our military facilities, which will continue to operate unfettered, as they do today.
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Q2
Direct Answer
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Context
Following a significant announcement, the MP acknowledges its importance but seeks assurances about the agreement's impact on Gibraltar's sovereignty and economy.
I congratulate the Government on this significant announcement. Does the Minister agree that the agreement provides additional safeguards to Gibraltar's sovereignty while creating new economic opportunities for its people? Anyone with concerns should listen to the Chief Minister of Gibraltar, who knows what is best for his constituents.
I can assure my hon. Friend of that. It is important to note that Gibraltar's sovereignty was never on the table in the negotiations—we have been very clear about that throughout. The agreement has been supported by and worked through with the Government of Gibraltar throughout, and it was unanimously supported by Gibraltar's Parliament.
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Q3
Partial Answer
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Context
Following a previous statement to the House, the MP notes that there has been no follow-up detail promised. The Government of Gibraltar expects the treaty to come into force in July.
Sadly, the statement on 26 February did not provide the detail Parliament was promised. The Government of Gibraltar states that the treaty is provisionally due to come into force in July. Will the Minister set out a clear timetable for implementation and confirm when Parliament will have proper time to scrutinise? Will he guarantee scrutiny under the Constitutional Reform and Governance Act before provisional application?
As I set out yesterday, the timetable is not entirely in our control because it relates to EU processes. Mr Speaker, you will know that I brought forward the draft treaty for scrutiny. Briefings were provided to the right hon. Lady and her colleague. We will follow the CRaG process as usual. The House will be kept informed and able to scrutinise appropriately.
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Assessment & feedback
The specific date was not given, only that it relates to EU processes beyond UK control
As I Set Out Yesterday
Not Entirely In Our [K Control Because
Response accuracy