Political row in Spain over how Gibraltar agreement should be ratified

A political row has emerged in Spain over how the Gibraltar agreement should be ratified.

The Spanish Foreign Minister, says the deal between the UK and the EU only requires approval at European level. 

José Manuel Albares argues it is an EU association agreement with third countries. 

But, opposition parties, principally the Partido Popular and Vox, are calling for the agreement to be put to a vote in both chambers of the Spanish Parliament. 

They argue it should be treated as an organic law, requiring an absolute majority.

They have also criticised the Spanish government for not seeking advice from the Consejo de Estado, Spain’s highest consultative body.

The Consejo de Estado provides independent legal advice on major decisions, including international agreements and constitutional matters. While its opinions carry weight, they are not binding, meaning the government is not obliged to follow them.

For its part, the Spanish Government maintains that EU legal services support its position that national parliamentary approval is not required.

The Gibraltar Agreement is now expected to be debated in Spain’s Congress