Sep 09 - Chief Minister Receives National Day Message From Shadow Foreign Secretary

On the eve of National Day the Chief Minister Fabian Picardo has received a congratulatory message from the shadow Foreign Secretary, Emily Thornberry.

The text of the message reads:

FAO: The Hon Fabian Picardo MP – Chief Minister

Dear Mr Picardo,

As Britain’s shadow Foreign Secretary and a proud member of the Labour Party I would like to congratulate Gibraltar on the celebration of its September 10 National Day when the people of Gibraltar rejoice in their identity as Gibraltarians and also as part of the great British family of nations.

Just weeks after the people of Gibraltar produced a 96% vote to remain in the European Union, from an impressive 88% turnout of the population, it is important that the people of Britain show solidarity as the Rock now faces the uncertainty created by the decision for a ‘Brexit’.

Gibraltar has a great tradition for social justice and for its loyalty to Great Britain over the centuries through thick and thin.

I am deeply conscious of the need to ensure that Gibraltar continues to enjoy the benefits and prosperity that it has derived from its membership of the EU through Britain. It is important that Britain keeps its doors open to the people of Gibraltar for trade and services so that that ‘single market’ between us continues.

Gibraltar should be fully involved in and represented at all negotiations and arrangements which the UK carries out with the EU, to ensure its position within the EU is fully protected.

We know that you may now face challenges with your neighbours. Labour fully backs the self-determination of the people of Gibraltar.

We fully support the double lock concept by which the United Kingdom makes clear it will never enter into arrangements under which the people of Gibraltar would pass under the sovereignty of another State against your wishes.

And furthermore, the UK will not enter into a process of sovereignty negotiations with which Gibraltar is not content.

Have a great National Day! Best wishes,
Emily

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