Aug 05 - Get Involved! – Graham Watson Urges EU Commission to Interfere in Gib – Spain Dispute
Gibraltar MEP Sir Graham Watson has written to the President of the European Commission on the escalation of tensions ‘with regard to the sovereignty of Gibraltar’.
Mr. Watson notes his appreciation that the Commission prefers not to become involved in territorial disputes between Member States, however he adds, ‘ it does have a moral duty to see the rights of all Union citizens upheld. For that reason I write to seek your active involvement in persuading Spain to desist from its actions.’
Mr. Watson makes note of the recent incident that saw a Guardia Civil officer discharge a firearm at a citizen using a jet ski in BGTW.
Touching upon Spanish Foreign Minister Sr. Margallo’s comments over the weekend, suggesting that the Spanish government may implement a frontier crossing fee, Mr. Watson insists that this is ‘completely at odds with the EU Treaties, especially the provisions of Article 18 and 21 TFEU. ‘
He then urges the President to act now, ‘the rights of my constituents under EU law cannot be ignored or forgotten by the EU’s institutions. I am therefore appealing to you to ensure that the rights of the citizens of Gibraltar are fully upheld and that the Commission publicly reminds the Spanish Government of its Treaty obligations to all citizens of Europe.’
He adds, ‘moreover I urge you to send observers from the European Commission to monitor the situation at the border, as per the request made by representatives of the Government of Gibraltar at a recent meeting with Commissioners Semeta.’
