​The Chief Minister says he's always been very clear that 'boots on the ground' are a 'no-no' in treaty negotiations.

The Chief Minister says he's always been very clear that 'boots on the ground' are a 'no-no' in treaty negotiations.

Speaking on Direct Democracy, Fabian Picardo said the reference in the Spanish Parliament, to armed Spanish police in Gibraltar, is Spain putting its position across, not divulging details.

He called for patience and stoic calm saying no-one should be surprised to see positions harden before any possible breakthrough

And on the tax treaty signed between Spain and Gibraltar the Chief Minister said Spain was in the process of removing Gibraltar from its black list.

Mr Picardo had previously said he would walk away from the Tax Treaty if Gibraltar was not removed within two years.

And with the budget session to take place soon, the Chief Minister said he was currently negotiating with the Unions on a-cost-of-living pay rise for the public sector.