Lammy Asserts Gibraltar’s Sovereignty Remains Uncompromised in New UK–EU Deal

Foreign Secretary David Lammy has unequivocally stated that the United Kingdom’s sovereignty over Gibraltar is “not up for negotiation” following the recent agreement with Spain and the European Union. The deal, finalized on June 11, 2025, addresses post-Brexit border arrangements between Gibraltar and Spain, aiming to streamline cross-border movement and enhance economic stability.

Under the new accord, Gibraltar and Spanish residents will be able to cross the border using residence or government ID cards, eliminating the need for passport stamps. However, passport controls will still occur at Gibraltar airport, modeled after French police checks at London’s St. Pancras station. The agreement also integrates Gibraltar into the EU’s Schengen free-travel zone, allowing for more fluid movement of people and goods. In exchange, Gibraltar will end its VAT-free regime, replacing it with a higher transaction tax to address Spanish concerns about unfair tax advantages and contraband trade.

Lammy emphasized that this arrangement does not compromise British sovereignty over Gibraltar. He noted that Chief Minister Fabian Picardo had “vocally supported” the agreement and stated that there was “no possible read across” to Gibraltar on the issue of sovereignty. Lammy further clarified that the circumstances surrounding the Chagos Islands are “not comparable” to those of Gibraltar or the Falkland Islands, underscoring that sovereignty over these territories remains firmly under British control.

The agreement has been hailed as a pragmatic solution to longstanding border issues, balancing the interests of the UK, Spain, and Gibraltar. It aims to provide legal certainty and economic stability for Gibraltar, whose economy relies heavily on daily cross-border workers from Spain. While some critics have raised concerns about the implications for British sovereignty, Lammy and other officials have reiterated that the deal does not alter the status of Gibraltar as a British Overseas Territory.

As the UK moves towards ratifying the agreement, Lammy’s statements serve to reassure both the people of Gibraltar and the broader international community that British sovereignty remains intact. The deal is expected to foster improved relations between the UK, Spain, and the EU, paving the way for greater cooperation and stability in the region.