However, the terms of the special deal will need to be analysed quickly if the position is to be adopted; the agreement talks are thought to be closing in on the completion stage.
Chief among the points Spain wishes to address are environmental regulations, tax evasion, tobacco smuggling and, of particular interest to Gibraltar wealth management clients, the status of cross-border workers. Spanish newspaper El Pais reports that Spain is actually seeking an annex to the wider agreement that addresses these particular issues.
Michel Barnier, the EU’s chief Brexit negotiator, recently held talks with the Spanish prime minister, Pedro Sanchez, and stated his “full support” for Spain in its attempts to ensure that Gibraltar-related issues were addressed in the Withdrawal Agreement.
Ashley Fox, a Gibraltar MEP, told tabloid the Sun, “So long as talks continue in goodwill and respect the Rock’s sovereignty we can reach a deal on time that will benefit both Spain and Gibraltar.”
Gibraltar Wealth Management Specialists
While the full Withdrawal Agreement details are yet to be published, there are still many wealth management options for expats living in Gibraltar, from tax efficiency and pension transfers to more general financial advice including inheritance tax planning and portfolio strategy.
If you would like help developing a plan for your financial future, contact a Blacktower adviser today.
British people make up one of the highest percentages of expats in the world, it is estimated by the World Bank that between 4.5 million and 5.5 million Britons live abroad – around 7-8% of the UK population. Spain has become a firm favourite for people choosing to settle down overseas.
At the beginning of March 2017, a report titled “Brexit: Gibraltar” was published by the House of lords EU Select Committee. The purpose of the report was to make sure UK Government does not forget about Gibraltar during negotiations for an exit deal, ensuring its voice is heard.