The Government says that some international media have misinterpreted statements made to the press as a suggestion that Gibraltar would seek to 'rescind' acquired rights of EU citizens post Brexit.

A spokesperson said: “In answer to questions from the various press agencies, the position of the Government of Gibraltar is that this could be a potential unwanted side-effect of the exclusion of Gibraltar from withdrawal and transitional periods. The position of Her Majesty's Government of Gibraltar - as also repeatedly stated by the Government of the United Kingdom - is that Gibraltar should be included in the withdrawal, transition and future arrangements. That would obviate any potentially losses arising to EU Citizens working in Gibraltar.”

The Deputy Chief Minister, Dr Joseph Garcia, said: "Theoretical consideration of the effect of Gibraltar's exclusion from the withdrawal and transitional periods is becoming more and more common in the media as we move closer to the date of departure of the United Kingdom from the European Union. Despite that, I am genuinely optimistic that the attitude of all relevant parties is to ensure that instead of talking of vetoes, we all want to talk about cooperation and ensuring that citizens are not in any way adversely affected by Brexit. Snr Dastis, the Spanish Foreign Minister has been explicit in stating that he wants to avoid any detriment to those who live and work in this area. That is an area of deep common ground between us and is, indeed, our common responsibility."