Oct 31 – Overlooking The City: Brexit Dominates Gherkin Reception
The top floor of the Gherkin skyscraper in the heart of the City was the stunning setting for this year’s Gibraltar Day reception.
Although a much smaller event than last year, the celebration brought together a high-powered mix of ambassadors, former Governors Sir Adrian Johns and Sir James Dutton, Ministers of Overseas Territories, Members of Parliament and business representatives.
As the crowd mingled, there was on topic on everyone’s lips: Brexit and what it means for the Rock and, as expected, the result of June’s referendum provided the focus of both the Chief Minister’s address and Robin Walker’s.
Walker: UK’s Commitment “Has Not Diminished”
Robin Walker, a junior government minister in the newly formed Department for Exiting the European Union, reassured the audience that Brexit would have no adverse effect on the UK’s commitment to Gibraltar.
Mr Walker said the UK government recognized Gibraltar’s “particular priorities” when it came to forging a Brexit strategy like a “well-functioning” border and trade with the UK.
He added that the UK had pledged to fully involve Gibraltar in the run up to leaving the EU.
He concluded on a high note: “Both the United Kingdom and Gibraltar are at our best when we work together.”
“I know Gibraltar will respond to this year’s momentous challenges in its usual way: with innovation, creativity, determination and spirit,” he said.
Pic: Robin Walker with the Chief Minister.
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