UK government concerned by Spanish threats over Gibraltar
THE UK government has revealed its concern over remarks made by Spain’s foreign minister over Gibraltar, the disputed British territory on the southern tip of the Iberian Peninsula.
Jose Manuel Garcia-Margallo said Spain will step up controls on Gibraltar following a dispute over fishing rights.
In an e-mailed statement, the Foreign & Commonwealth Office in London said Garcia-Margallo’s comments were being looked into.
“As we have said, we will not compromise on our sovereignty over Gibraltar, nor our commitment to its people,” the FCO said. “We continue to use all necessary measures to safeguard British sovereignty.”
In an interview with ABC newspaper, Garcia-Margallo said: “The party is over.” He has mooted a €50-border-crossing fee and tax investigations of thousands of Gibraltarians who own property in Spain. A border fee would affect tourists and Gibraltarians who cross the border for work.