No-deal Brexit: Gibraltar fears catastrophic consequences

A few weeks before the end of the Brexit transition period, Gibraltar also fears the impending no-deal scenario: the economy in the British enclave in southern Spain is dependent on the 10 million visitors who normally stroll through the streets every year. In addition, the rocky peninsula is dependent on food imports from the mainland.

In view of the many uncertainties, one cannot assume that everything will remain the same as before, said Prime Minister Fabian Picardo. An emergency plan is only about ensuring the most basic things. Life would change radically for the worse if there was no agreement, and not just for the people of Gibraltar.

Traders fear for their existence

The administration is therefore working with Spain on its own agreement, which should enable a reasonably smooth border traffic.

Meanwhile, the traders in the streets of Gibraltar fear for their customers and their livelihoods. “With a closed border or more controls, it takes about 10 to 15 seconds per person to check the papers, which will result in long lines,” said Prem Mahtani jeweler. “That will keep people from coming to Gibraltar.”

The question is also what an unregulated Brexit means for the 15,000 commuters who come to Gibraltar every day to work. Border congestion and economic problems could also change the attitude of the people of Gibraltar towards belonging to Spain: Until now they have been clearly pro-British, but if life becomes too complicated and the economy suffers, Madrid’s efforts to regain the peninsula could be more successful will.

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