UK and Spain strike deal over Gibraltar's future and borders
The UK and Spain have struck a deal over Gibraltar's future, concluding four years of on-off negotiations.
The two sides have agreed measures to ensure people can move freely across the land border between Gibraltar and Spain with no checks, and to introduce Eurostar-style dual border checks at the airport.
The agreement does not affect sovereignty over Gibraltar, which remains a British overseas territory.
David Lammy, the UK foreign secretary, said: 'This government inherited a situation from the last government which put Gibraltar's economy and way of life under threat. Today's breakthrough delivers a practical solution after years of uncertainty.
'Alongside the government of Gibraltar, we have a reached an agreement which protects British sovereignty, supports Gibraltar's economy and allows businesses to plan for the long-term once again.'
In a statement, the Spanish foreign affairs ministry said the agreement 'safeguards the respective legal positions of Spain and the United Kingdom regarding sovereignty and jurisdiction'.
'The main aim of the future agreement is to ensure the future prosperity of the entire region. To this end, all physical barriers, checks, and controls on people and goods moving between Spain and Gibraltar will be removed,' it said.
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