The Government of Gibraltar has delivered a blistering response to Nigel Farage after the Reform UK leader made controversial remarks about the British Overseas Territory during a television interview.
Chief Minister Fabian Picardo accused the Brexit architect of making "outrageous" comments that fundamentally undermined Gibraltar's status as British sovereign territory and the loyalty of its people to the Crown.
Farage's Controversial Claims
The diplomatic firestorm erupted after Farage told ITV's Good Morning Britain that Gibraltar was "to all intents and purposes a foreign land" and questioned whether British armed forces should be expected to defend the territory.
In remarks that have sparked widespread condemnation, Farage stated: "If you ask the question, should our armed services be expected to defend, if you like, a foreign land? I think that is a really big question."
Gibraltar's Furious Response
In an official statement, Mr Picardo didn't hold back, declaring: "Mr Farage's comments are outrageous and the people of Gibraltar reject them in the most vigorous of terms."
The Chief Minister emphasised that "Gibraltar is British sovereign territory in which the people are British and have voted by 96% to remain British." He reminded Farage that Gibraltarians "have fought and died for the Crown and for freedom."
Background to the Dispute
The controversy comes at a particularly sensitive time for Gibraltar, which is currently negotiating a post-Brexit treaty with the European Union. The delicate discussions aim to establish border arrangements between Gibraltar and Spain while preserving the territory's British sovereignty.
Mr Picardo warned that Farage's comments could potentially damage these crucial negotiations, stating they "undermine the work we are doing with the UK to deliver a safe and secure treaty."
Political Fallout
The Reform UK leader's remarks have drawn criticism from across the political spectrum, with many questioning his understanding of Britain's constitutional arrangements and international commitments.
Gibraltar, often referred to as "The Rock," has been a British Overseas Territory since 1713 and its residents have consistently voted overwhelmingly to maintain British sovereignty in referendums.
The strong response from the Gibraltar government highlights the ongoing tensions surrounding Britain's post-Brexit relationships and the sensitivity surrounding the status of British territories abroad.
