Gibraltar’s rock-solid reset!

At last! When much of the world is busy putting up borders, Gibraltar and Spain knocked one down. As midnight struck on July 14, frontier checks disappeared, sparking celebrations on both sides – as recently reported in these pages.

With a landmark EU-UK treaty dismantling police and customs posts, Spanish PM Pedro Sánchez hailed this as “the last wall in continental Europe” to fall. More than a Brexit clean-up, the agreement could also boost defence co-operation between two NATO allies guarding the entrance to the Mediterranean.

Life beneath the Rock always depended on Spain. Over 10,000 workers cross daily from La Línea, while many Gibraltarians own homes across the border. With so much at stake, it’s hardly surprising 96% voted to remain in the EU.

After five years of negotiations, Gibraltar effectively joins the Schengen travel area and EU customs union for goods. British arrivals clear Spanish passport control, while new taxes and duties bring Gibraltar closer to EU rules, ending its “bargain-booze” reputation…

The deal parks the sovereignty dispute, replacing confrontation with co-operation. Supporters believe greater certainty will attract investment and encourage more European flights to Gibraltar. Political arguments will continue, but it’s hoped that as well as resolving unfinished Brexit business, this landmark deal could signal a more pragmatic UK-EU reset.

But with a new UK PM in office, only time will tell…

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Nora Johnson’s 14 critically acclaimed psychological suspense crime thrillers, including the latest ‘The House of Secrets’ (www.nora-johnson.net), all available online at Amazon etc. Profits to Cudeca cancer charity.