The UK government has agreed a post-Brexit deal with the EU on Gibraltar, unpicking another issue in its negotiations with Brussels.
Foreign Secretary David Lammy flew to the British overseas territory late last night for talks with ministers there, before heading on to Brussels for finalising talks with the EU and Spain.
The government says the new agreement resolves the “last major unresolved issue from Brexit”, and “avoids the need” for checks on people and goods crossing the Gibraltar-Spain border, to support “prosperity in the region”.
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Around 15,000 people – more than half of Gibraltar’s workforce – cross the border daily.
The UK is hoping it will help speed up other post-Brexit discussions as it looks to reset its relationship with the EU.
As part of the deal, the government says there will be dual border control checks for arrivals by air at Gibraltar airport, carried out by Gibraltar and Spanish officials, as well as arrivals by sea at the port.
Immigration and law and order in Gibraltar will remain the exclusive responsibility of Gibraltar’s authorities.
Spanish officials will be responsible for ensuring the integrity of the Schengen Area, in a model the government says is similar to French police operating in London’s St Pancras station.
A bespoke agreement was needed for the territory, as Spain claims Gibraltar belongs to them after the UK took control of the territory in the early 18th century.
Both Tory and Labour governments have been firm in their stance that they will not give up sovereignty of the territory to Spain.
The deal explicitly states the treaty will not impact sovereignty, and also ensures the UK has full operational autonomy for the military facilities there.
St Pancras style checks
The government said: “Immigration and law…
