​Prime Minister pledges full support for Gibraltar amidst Covid-19 Pandemic

The UK Prime Minister has sent a letter to the Chief Minister offering the full support of the UK Government in Gibraltar’s fight against Coronavirus, saying the UK Government is committed to standing by the Rock during this difficult time. He has offered to supply additional healthcare staff if Gibraltar needs it.

The Prime Minister says despite some inflexible EU regulations, the Secretary of State for International Trade has accelerated the delivery of additional supplies of Personal Protective Equipment to Gibraltar. The letter also notes that Spain has agreed not to hinder the delivery of this equipment.

In terms of the economic impact of the current crisis, Mr Johnson says that he wants to offer clear and unequivocal reassurance that the UK will support the Government of Gibraltar as it manages the challenging economic consequences of the pandemic.

The Prime Minister goes on to say that he is pleased to hear that British Forces Gibraltar are providing military assistance to Gibraltar and he notes that the Governor will provide every possible support in confronting the impact of this crisis.

Mr Johnson says that the UK would consider how best it could provide further support if Gibraltar had a serious need for additional healthcare staff.

The Prime Minister’s letter concludes by offering his best wishes for the task we are facing together.’

The Chief Minister says it is important to know that we have the Prime Minister’s full support, and his pledge of practical and economic assistance are reassuring but, equally important, is the simple fact that, despite having contracted Coronavirus himself, he is still thinking about the needs of the people of Gibraltar

Fabian Picardo says he was very touched to receive his letter and will reply to tell him so.