FT piece says Gibraltar treaty shows 'softer Brexit is the only option'

Gibraltar's post-Brexit arrangements have been highlighted in the UK press as an example of how closer ties with the European Union can work in practice.

A Financial Times opinion piece argued that Gibraltar should show the new Prime Minister, Andy Burnham, that "a softer Brexit is the only option".

Gibraltar's agreement with the European Union was the focus of a piece by Financial Times columnist Martin Sandbu, on the UK's future relationship with Europe after Brexit.

He argued the agreement offers an example of closer alignment with the EU while allowing the free movement of people and goods across Gibraltar's land border with Spain.

He pointed to Gibraltar and Northern Ireland as examples of where UK governments have opted for closer ties with European rules and arrangements in the years since Brexit.

The Chief Minister shared the article on social media, saying it vindicated Gibraltar's approach to the negotiations.

Fabian Picardo renewed his criticism of the Opposition's previous calls for Gibraltar to be included in the UK-EU Trade and Cooperation Agreement.

However, the Opposition Leader said this was a "total misrepresentation" and that the GSD had always said the Gibraltar agreement should allow people to move freely across the border.

Keith Azopardi said the GSLP should instead focus its energy on making the treaty work.