Spain And Britain Must Respect Gibraltar's Voice In Future Talks

by Jason Gorringe, Tax-News.com, London

08 January 2004

In his New Year message to the people of Gibraltar earlier this week, Chief Minster Peter Caruana talked of the Rock’s growing confidence in its dealings with Britain and Spain over the sovereignty issue, although he expressed regret that Spain has not shown “similar respect” to the UK regarding Gibraltar’s independence.

“I believe that during 2002 and 2003 we have successfully seen off the attempt by the UK and Spain to try and deal with our future bilaterally between them,” declared Caruana.

He continued: “There now appears to be a realisation and acceptance in London that, since this is our homeland, we have to be the primary players in all discussions, processes and decisions about our future – since only we can decide that future.

“If only the UK could persuade Spain to show similar respect for our undeniable political and democratic rights as a people, then this would augur well for helpful dialogue and greater friendship and normality in our relations with Spain."

“It has to be understood that it is those who seek to deny and challenge our rights, wishes and aspirations at every turn, that bear the primary responsibility for any abnormality in the relations between Gibraltar and Spain.”

On tax, the Chief Minster revealed that the government will remain committed to cutting taxation to the "lowest possible levels." However, Caruana expressed a desire to end the “culture of arrears”, and warned of a clamp down on tax evasion “right across the board”.

“It is simply not fair on the vast majority that a small minority do not pay what they should, so that the rest have to pay more than is necessary,” he explained.

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