Chief Minister & Europe Minister address Foreign Affairs Committee on UK EU treaty

The Chief Minister says the Gibraltar Parliament has always been a stronger guardian than the UK Parliament of the Rock's British sovereignty - and that all local parties were unanimous in supporting the treaty.

Fabian Picardo gave evidence in what he said would be his last appearance before the House of Commons Foreign Affairs Committee, which was broadcast this afternoon on GBC Television.

The committee was also addressed by the Minister for Europe, Stephen Doughty.

Addressing the Foreign Affairs Select Committee, Fabian Picardo outlined what he said were the main benefits of the treaty for businesses and people - and said Gibraltar's Parliament was not known for being soft on sovereignty.

On the Concordat, the Chief Minister said a few points remained to be finalised on British constitutional law and how it interfaces with Gibraltar's.

He said the Gibraltar Parliament's approval of the treaty motion was contingent on the Concordat.

He addressed article 66 of the treaty, which allows Spain to request the treaty be terminated.

There was also a parting message from Mr Picardo, who earlier this year said he would be leaving as Chief Minister in 2027.

Minister for Europe, Stephen Doughty, also addressed the Committee, and said the timeframe for the UK Parliament's scrutiny of the treaty depended on EU processes.

On the EU Parliament side, he said while there are always dissenting voices, the European Commission has been very clear it supports the treaty. He also addressed the possibility of a change of government in Spain.

And, accompanying Mr Doughty, FCDO Director for the EU and Gibraltar, Hazel Cameron, spoke about the administrative arrangements for the trade of goods, and the timeframe by which these are expected to be concluded.

You can catch up on the full Foreign Affairs Committee session right here on our website.