Aug 07 - British Territories And Public Show Support For Gibraltar
Amongst many other messages of support in the last few days, the Chief Minister has received a letter from the Hon Ian Hansen of the Falkland Islands Government. The letter reads:
‘On behalf of the people and Government of the Falkland Islands, I would like to say how concerned we are to learn of the rising tensions between yourselves and Spain. We are pleased to hear the strong messages from the British Government in support of Gibraltar and would like to echo those sentiments. We hope that the situation does not escalate and that a swift resolution to the current crisis can be found. We send our warm good wishes to our friends in Gibraltar and wish to let them know that we are thinking of them during this difficult time.’
Similar support has been forthcoming from Senator Ian Gorst the Chief Minister of Jersey and Mr Emil Kirjas, the Secretary General of Liberal International plus various messages from many British MPs and all six MEPs.
Mr Picardo has also received messages directly from members of the British public. ‘I’m just writing to say what a brilliant impression your radio interview made on BBC Radio 4’s ‘Today’ programme this morning,’ wrote a Mr Mahaffey from Bedfordshire. ‘Calm, non- aggressive, logical and controlled. Gibraltar should be proud to have you as its leader.’
‘It is most reassuring to know that so many people are behind us on this current issue,’ said Mr Picardo. ‘And we are so grateful, not only for their support but for the fact that they have taken the trouble to express that support so emphatically.’
